Happy New Year?
With the calendar quickly shifting to February, it’s possible the New Year’s resolutions that you set for this year have either been forgotten or are a work in progress.
There is no reason to feel bad or discouraged as various studies indicate that succeeding at New Year’s resolutions in both the short and long-term can be a challenge.
One study discovered that while the success rate can be high in the opening weeks of a new year, it is low (about 20%) two years later. Common reasons include:
A lack of personal control
Excessive stress
Negative emotions
The good news is that you can take measures to create resolutions and action plans that can help make them stick, contributing to a boost in your life pursuits along with your health and wellbeing.
As someone who has set New Year’s resolutions for a number of years, I would like to share some of the tips that have helped me gradually improve my success rate.
Be SMART!
Like many people, I’ve struggled at succeeding at my New Year’s resolutions despite my best intentions and effort. In retrospect, I’ve discovered that a lack of focus in setting and following through on my resolutions had a direct impact on my results.
Recently, I’ve addressed this by using the SMART system. This features resolutions that are carefully planned and are:
Smart
Measurable
Achievable
Realistic
Timely
I know this system can work because through this planning and discipline, I’ve been able to grow and evolve my business while also enjoying a healthier lifestyle and mindset that I shared in a recent post.
Be flexible
While many choose to set their New Year’s resolutions in December or at the very beginning of a new year, some experts suggest that you should be nimble and flexible – treating goals as little programs – and adjusting them along the way.
I agree and that’s why I am taking a measured approach to my own New Year’s resolutions once again this year. I am focused on making small commitments throughout the year and revisiting them. One of this year’s resolutions – which I hope to achieve shortly – is going skydiving for the first time in my life to help tackle one of my fears (Acrophobia) and also break out of my comfort zone!
The reality is that one of the constants in life is change and those who can adapt and evolve have a better chance at success. So, if you have already set your New Year’s resolutions or plan to create them through inspiration from this post, make sure to build in some flexibility so that you have a good chance at success – in both the short and long-term.
Be grateful
Life can throw all sorts of challenges and obstacles your way so I firmly believe that it’s important to celebrate accomplishments and milestones – large or small. It doesn’t have to be achieving a sales target or getting a promotion but also celebrating a new friend or business partner or making strides in your workouts, improving your diet, or getting more sleep.
Over the past year, I have celebrated the second anniversary of this company, watched in appreciation as my network has grown, and also taken the opportunity to plan an expansion into new markets (more on that in an upcoming post!).
And don’t be afraid to be your own cheerleader or in providing support to others. We all need inspiration and taking the time to be grateful for something you have achieved can contribute to your mental state and help you scale even greater heights.
Join our journey!
One thing I have learned since founding HYGGEWellbeing is that you can’t accomplish anything great on your own. You need a support system. Whether it’s family, friends or community, it can be easier to succeed with the support of others rather than trying to go it alone.
That’s exactly why I announced the evolution of the company recently. Through initiatives such as WellnessX and HW Clan, I am determined to build and foster a community where people can feel comfortable and supported on a journey to a healthier and balanced lifestyle.
Whether you have already set your New Year’s resolutions – or plan to start now after reading this post – now is as good time as any to refine or plan your list. And if you want more details about any of our initiatives that can help you succeed, feel free to reach out to me by emailing hello@hyggewellbeing.co.
Good luck – and Happy New Year!
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