A fresh start…

NY

Historically, the first recorded people to set New Year pledges - later to become known as resolutions are the Ancient Babylonians some 4,000 years ago. New Year’s resolution is a tradition, mostly in the West where a person resolves to make a significant change or achieve a particular goal in the coming year. It is a way to set goals and make positive commitments for self-improvement or personal development. People often make these resolutions at the beginning of the year as a way to mark a fresh start and set intentions for the months ahead.

The New Year offers a blank slate - an opportunity to get things right. When we set New Year’s resolutions, we are utilising a very important concept called self-efficacy, which means that by virtue of aspiring to a goal and following through on it, ‘I have a sense of control over what’s happening in my life and I can do something about it.’ It is like a rest button, to move away from the previous year and onto greater things forward.

It offers a sense of hope, a feeling of redemption; that although they didn’t follow through last year, this year might just be different. And this hope and sense of ‘looking forward’ to change and betterment is what keeps us going. This has also kept the tradition of resolutions on the first of January for such a long period of time.

Whether it is to lose weight or to perfect a language many people set unrealistic goals, their expectations way too high, which in a matter of days fails them and in return causes more disappointment. There are several reasons why people may struggle to follow through with their New Year’s resolutions. Some common factors include:

Unrealistic expectations: Setting overly ambitious or unrealistic goals can set you up for failure. It’s important to set achievable and gradual goals to build momentum over time.

Lack of planning: Failing to plan and create a clear roadmap for achieving your resolutions can make it difficult to stay on track. Planning helps outline the necessary steps and actions.

Vague resolutions: Resolutions that are too broad or vague, such as ‘to lose weight’ or ‘to get fit’, may lack specificity and make it challenging to measure progress or stay motivated.

No accountability: Sharing your resolutions with friends or family or having an accountability partner can help keep you on track. Lack of accountability may result in a lack of motivation.

Impatience: Change takes time, and people often expect immediate results. When progress is slow, some may become discouraged and abandon their resolutions.

Lack of motivation: If the motivation behind your resolution is not strong or meaningful enough, it may be challenging to stay committed. Connecting your resolution to a deeper purpose can increase motivation.

Failure to adapt: Life is unpredictable, and unexpected challenges can arise. Failing to adapt your goals to changing circumstances may lead to frustration and abandonment of resolutions.

All-or-nothing thinking: Viewing setbacks as complete failures can be de-motivating. It’s essential to recognise that setbacks are a normal part of the process, and you can learn from them.

All these reasons do not essentially mean that one cannot fulfill a goal that they have set, goals are achievable if they are set in a way it is possible for them to be attainable. They have to be realistic and specific, there are some ways one can accomplish their resolutions.

Achieving New Year’s resolutions often involves setting realistic and achievable goals and implementing strategies to stay on track. Here are some tips to help you turn your resolutions into successful accomplishments:

• Set realistic goals: Make sure your resolutions are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Setting realistic goals increases the likelihood of success.

• Break-down goals: Divide larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. This makes it easier to track progress and prevents feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a plan: Develop a detailed plan outlining the steps needed to achieve your resolutions. A clear roadmap provides guidance and structure for your journey.

• Establish habits: Focus on building positive habits that align with your resolutions. Consistent, small actions over time can lead to significant changes.

• Start small: Begin with manageable changes, especially if your resolution involves adopting new behaviours.

• Track progress: Keep a record of your achievements, no matter how small. Regularly assessing your progress helps maintain motivation and identify areas for improvement.

• Stay accountable: Share your resolutions with friends, family, or a supportive community. Having others hold you accountable can provide encouragement and motivation.

• Adjust as needed: Be flexible and willing to adapt your goals based on your experiences. Life is dynamic, and adjustments may be necessary to stay on course.

• Reward yourself: Celebrate your successes along the way. Recognising and rewarding your achievements can boost motivation and reinforce positive behaviour.

Remember, achieving resolutions is a journey, and success often comes from consistency and perseverance. Be patient with yourself, and celebrate the progress you make along the way.