It’s the same old trope, the one that has come out of nearly everyone’s mouth at some point. While the beginning of a new calendar year can be a great opportunity to reset and refocus, it’s important to realize that nothing will change if you don’t try. If you actually want to make a tangible change in your life, use these helpful tips to actualize your goals in the new year.
Flexibility is Important
Remember when you set goals in the beginning of january that your circumstances throughout the year may change, which could lead to a change in your overall goal. Being kind to yourself and allowing for your objective to change as time moves forward is a very valuable tool. However, it is important to make sure that you are being truthful with yourself about how things might have changed, and adjust accordingly.
Build on Past Positivity
Think about some things that you like about yourself, or something that you already do that you would like to expand on. For example, if you already exercise two days a week, that’s a great start! Don’t disparage the work that you have already done, just expand on it. Set a goal of increasing your workouts to three or four days a week. The “new” you can only exist if you take some of your positive actions and traits into the new year with you.
Take Accountability
Holding yourself accountable is possibly one of the most valuable things you can do. Being truthful with yourself about what you are doing (or not doing) to achieve your goals is vastly important. If you feel yourself start to slip, it’s okay, just evaluate the situation. Why are you struggling? What is holding you back from doing the best you can? Is this goal important to me any more? Why or why not? Becoming comfortable with being honest with yourself will help you become more efficient.
Be Realistic
Another great thing to keep in mind is to make realistic goals for your “new” self. Don’t choose something that is completely out of reach or unattainable. Dream big, but make sure that you are not setting yourself up for failure. Work towards your big goal by setting your yearly goal up in a way that will put you in a position to achieve the ultimate dream. Consider things like what you have time for and how much work you are willing to put into making yourself a better person.
