Does the first of the year make you feel like you’re a character in the movie “Groundhog Day?” You make a New Year’s resolution, only to break it. Then, the next year rolls around, and you do the same thing. It happens over and over again, and it makes you crazy. This is the year to finally break that cycle. Here are some tips to help you stick to your resolution this year.
Choose Wisely
When choosing a resolution, two words need to come to mind. You need something that is “doable” and “meaningful.”
Meaningful is easy, but what about doable?
Make sure a resolution is doable by choosing SMART goals. SMART goals are:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
Come Up with a Plan
You can’t reach a goal without a plan. Plans should be broken up into three parts. Start with the cue. Then, think of the routine and reward. These three things will help you either start a new habit or break an existing one.
Let’s say you want to stop getting on Facebook so much. The cue might be isolation. When you feel isolated, you pick up your phone and check Facebook. That’s the routine. The reward is the sense of connection you feel.
Once you understand the habit, you can break it. When you feel isolated, you can pick up the phone and call someone. Now, you have a new habit.
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What if It’s a Harder Habit to Break or Create?
What if you want to create a habit that’s harder than calling a friend? Let’s say, for instance, you want to take up running. That’s a lot more difficult than cutting down on social media.
In this case, your cue could be putting on your running clothes. That tells you it’s time to run. For the first week, just do that. Put on those running clothes. The next week, put on the running clothes and go for a short walk. Keep building up until you start running. Soon, it will be a routine.
When it comes to the reward, you might need to get creative. Keep track of your progress by writing it down or using an online tool. That will give you a sense of pride. You might even indulge in a small piece of chocolate as a reward. Just make sure your reward is something that truly makes you happy.
Once you stick to your resolution, you’ll deserve an even bigger treat. Berglund Automotive in Roanoke, Virginia, has the perfect reward for all your hard work. Think of how much you’ll enjoy driving around in your new car, truck, or SUV. Talk about an amazing reward for your hard work.
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