10 New Year resolutions: how to make 2018 the year you achieve your goals.

Each year we say we’ll start doing this, or stop doing that. But more often than not our big plans get dashed sometimes in January. Here are some of the most commonly recited New Year’s resolutions that pop up in late December, as well as others that are more likely to make it through the 365 days and really improve your life.

1. PICK OUT THE TOP FIVE THINGS YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE – THEN PRIORITIZE THEM.

Focus on one goal at a time and work on that fully before moving on. For example, don’t resolve to “get a whole new body” – instead pledge to lose a dress size by March, and thereafter lose 2 lbs every month. By setting milestones and time-bound goals, you stand a much better chance of success.

2. REWARD YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS.

Don’t think of what you’re giving up, but what you’re gaining. For example, if you’re giving up smoking save all the money you would have spent on cigarettes and spend the money on a holiday at the end of the year.

3. IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT GIVING SOMETHING UP.

Your resolution can be to start something new – a pottery class or dancing class. The key is for it be something fun and constructive, plus you get to learn a whole new skillset at the same time.

4. HAVE A “DREAM GOAL” AND A “SETTLE-FOR” GOAL.

Two goals are crucial for navigating your way to long lasting change. Losing two stone for  valentine’s day is a big ask; initially committing to lose a couple of pounds a week, for at least six weeks through diet and exercise will get you good results that you’ll be happy with.

5. SLEEP IS UNDERAPPRECIATED.

If you’re aiming for a less stressful 2018, improving your sleep quality and quality can do wonders for your mental health. Aim for a couple of early nights per week and see how it makes feel. You will be surprised at how much better you feel once you are getting enough sleep.

6. DISCONNECT.

Social media and online connectivity are good things in many ways, but they are also disruptive of relationships and can be damaging to mental health. It is unrealistic to cut yourself off from all social media, but a small reduction is doable. Ring fence one hour per day when you disconnect – maybe first thing in the morning or during your journey to work – and read a book instead.

7. CONDUCT A FRIENDSHIP AUDIT.

Isolation and loneliness are bad for both your physical and mental health. Taking time to reconnect with people who make you feel good and nurture your resilience is a powerful thing to do, and will set you up for the year.

8. IT’S NATURAL TO SLIP UP – BUT DON’T LET MINOR SETBACKS CRUSH YOUR PLANS.

If one day you don’t make it to the top, it’s not the end of the world. Don’t use it as an excuse to beat yourself up and eat the cake in the cupboard. Instead, change your mindset and turn it into a definitive “critical moment”. Fit in a five-minute and start again it never too late.

9. BUDDY UP WITH A PARTNER – THEY CAN REINFORCE YOUR RESOLUTION AND SHARE IN YOUR PAIN.

Appoint an accountability manager – a relative or a good friend who wants to see you succeed – you stand a much better chance of succeeding with someone keeping an eye on your progress.

10. BE HEALTHEIR.

This is one of our New Year’s goals that don’t produce many success stories. Why? It’s too vague. You can’t quickly “being healthier” so there’s no way to hold yourself accountable later. Choose something you can measure more easily that falls under the healthy umbrella.

It easy to feel motivated at the start of the year, but will power can win.

With forward planning, a little will-power and plenty of determination, 2018 could be the year you achieve your goals. GOOD LUCK!!!

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