Who Needs A New Year's Resolution?

Who Needs A New Year's Resolution?

When the clock strikes twelve on January 1st most of us make a mental note to restart, or start a new habit, a routine or even a promise. The most common resolutions are to eat healthier, save money, exercise more, only to find ourselves in the same position at the end of the year. I know all about breaking New Year's resolutions, according to studies most people by mid- January have slipped or have lapsed on their resolutions. Do we really need a specific holiday to improve our lives?

This is year I've decided to set goals instead of resolutions. Why goals? Because they are more specific, whereas resolutions tend to be broad and vague.  Goals are more actionable, which makes them more effective.

First, get a clear view on what you want to accomplish and why it's important. Let's say you want to make more money this year, but how do you plan on accomplishing that? Break it down. Do you plan on changing jobs, getting a promotion, or starting a business? What steps would you need to take? Get as specific as possible and outline all of the smaller steps you'll need to take to reach your full goal. The more specific you get when you break down your goals, the more likely it is that you'll accomplish them. When your goals are manageable, you'll be able to track your progress and stay focus.

It's recommended to choose three to five goals to work on, so you're not overwhelmed by them. Once you break down your goals into actionable steps, check in daily and weekly on your progress.

I've personally created goals for different areas of my life such as finances, health and fitness, relationship, work, and spiritual goals.  If you don't know where to begin here are a few effective ways of changing your life for the better:

• Start eating healthier food

• Stop procrastinating

• Get out of debt

• Become more active

• Earn more money

• Reduce stress

• Read more

• Spend more time with people who matter

• Start saving money

• Volunteer

• Travel more

• Become more organized

• Reinvent yourself

• Turn your hobby into a career

• Get over an ex

• Spend less time on social media

• Become more romantic

• Learn a new language

• Face your fears

• Start writing a book/journal

I wish you all the best on your new goals and continue to stick to the new habits you've developed.