For most of us, the New Year means making a list of resolutions in hopes of making the coming year a better one. Some will start off great, they have decided on what they want to do and how they’re going to accomplish it. They have also begun making the changes needed to meet their goal, and feel they’re completely ready to conquer the New Year with a ROAR! However, there are some of us that simply lack the motivation to make any resolutions for fear of failing to meet them. Which one are you?
I personally have experienced both. With certain resolutions I’ve been the overachiever, the go getter if you will- the person who plans, schedules everything and is on track to meet all set goals. However, I’ve also been the person who has struggled and lacked the motivation to even set the smallest of goals for myself.
It helps to understand that resolutions are nothing more than goals that you set for yourself. And with any goal, there are things that you can do which will help you succeed in accomplishing them. Easily said than done, I know. Here are a few things that have helped me when setting goals for myself.
First, your goal should be something realistic as well as something that “you” want. “You” being the key word here. “You” have to want it, not your family, significant other, or your friend/s. “YOU”
You should also limit the number of goals you want to meet to something that you can handle. Don’t take on a huge list of goals all at once. Again, be realistic with yourself. Start with making one change at a time.
Once you have a goal in mind, set your goal and make a plan as to how you’re going to accomplish and meet it. Outline your plan, planning ahead if necessary. Also, be specific with the details.
Tracking your progress can also be helpful. (I know it is for me) If you notice that you’re not meeting your goal and are off track for any reason, don’t beat yourself up. Just take a step back and determine the cause of it, make some adjustments to your plan and get back on track. You can always ask for support if needed.
Lastly, it’s very important to recognize and reward your accomplishments no matter how small they are. And again, DON’T beat yourself up if you fall short of your goal. You can always get back on track again.
By: Liza Vega-Tallman, Community Outreach Director
To schedule an appointment with Ben Novell, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Janelle Novell, LMFT, RPT-S or any of our therapists, please call 951-252-9911.
(Image from morguefile.com – Edited by Rofblot)