Do You Have a New Year's Resolution for 2014?

I’m not a big fan of New Year’s Resolutions because in the past I have had a lot of things I would like to change, but never followed through. Or, perhaps it’s because I don’t like setting myself up for failure. One thing I do know, goals are not achieved by accident. Goals must be thoughtfully identified and planned in order to be reached.

 

 

• Set small, realistic goals. Once you have achieved the small goals you can build on the new behaviors resulting in a greater impact on your health. 

• Set a schedule. No goal is attainable without deciding when you’re going to make the small changes needed to reach that goal. The schedule should be written down so you see the steps you will take to get there.

• Don’t beat yourself up by setbacks. The old adage in therapy is two steps forward, one step back and the same could be said for New Year’s Resolutions. It will help to remember that we are all human, we all make mistakes. It  does no good to get depressed, in fact, beating yourself will actually do the opposite and discourage you from reaching your goals.

• Use your support and talk about it. Don’t keep your resolution a secret. Tell your friends and family members who will be there to support your resolve to change yourself for the better or to improve your health. The best-case scenario is to find a buddy who shares your New Year’s resolution and motivate each other.

What are your goals for 2014? Share them in the comment section below and start getting support now!