Struggling to keep your New Year's Resolutions? According to the Statistic Brain Research Institute, only 71% of Americans make it through the first week of their resolutions. After the first month, only 64% are still sticking with it.
While these statistics could be disheartening, the truth is that it's never too late to start again and just because you took a week (or more) off from your resolutions doesn't mean that you have to give up! In fact, every week can be a chance to start a new resolution! If you are having trouble sticking with your goals, it could be time to take an honest look at what is keeping you from succeeding and tackle the obstacles! At the same time, keep these 5 tips in mind.
5 Tips to Keep Your New Year's Resolutions
1. Make Changes One at a Time
Have more than one resolution that you are trying to tackle this year? While it's great to have goals, it's important to be realistic and to set yourself up for success! Most New Year's Resolutions take serious behavior changes and if you overdo it you are more likely to give up as you begin to feel overwhelmed.
2. Avoid Stress
I know, this sounds like we're being overly simplistic but it truly will make a huge difference. The changes you are making are going to be stressful enough without adding additional stress. Now is not the time to take on extra tasks or get a new puppy! Instead, surround yourself with supportive friends and family that know what you are trying to do and can give you the emotional boost that you may need.
3. Stay Away From Absolutes
Any time you are denying yourself, you are tempting your rebellious side. Rather than state, "I am never eating carbs again!" try limiting carbs to one or two days a week.Knowing that you can indulge your carb cravings if you just hold out one more day, may help you to quell those cravings!
4. Avoid Your Triggers
While this may not be possible all the time, it's a good idea to stay away from situations that will cause you to crave those things that you are trying to avoid. Trying to quit smoking? Take a few weeks off from those social functions where you would normally have a cigarette. Is your goal to work out more often? Don't stay up late the night before you are planning a trip to the gym.Figure out what situations cause you to ditch your resolutions and then stay away from those situations.
5. Make a Plan
Most successful endeavors begin with a well thought out and constructed plan. While winging it can work some of the time, the best way to ensure success is to seriously consider from the outset your goals and the obstacles and how you can tackle both!
The bottom line, stick with it! Major habit changes definitely don't happen overnight but most of them are worth the effort and some can add years to your life! For more helpful tips on keeping you New Year's Resolutions, check out this article!
