New Year, New Me?

Can someone please find me one person who has stuck with their New Year's resolutions this year...or any year?  Because as far as I'm concerned, a list of 10 things I should (or shouldn't) do for 365 days is really just tiring, stressful, and often unrealistic.  I mean, resolutions like "Stop eating Mcdonald's forever" and "Exercise every single day" are just not going to happen for a a girl like me who loves salty french fries and laying in bed for hours.

But your resolutions don't have to be all talk and no action.  If you write them down somewhere visible, create timelines, and are truly committed to making a change even when things get tough, there is no reason why you can't make this upcoming year the best one yet.

I have come up with a few tips on how to succeed (or at least try) in achieving your New Year's resolutions.

1. Come up with a shorter list

Think carefully when you write your resolutions.  See this photo here.  

I'm sure there are hundreds of things we could all do in order to become perfect people, but it's just not realistic.  Try thinking of 3-5 improvements you would like to make in your life.  That way, you can stay focused on the driving forces of your decisions and changes.  Even one goal is a big step.

2. Put your list in plain sight

Adding little notes on the to the fridge, TV, or even a bag of chips creates a visual that may help you to refrain from bad habits.

As much as I hate to admit it (I rarely write things down...ironic huh?), creating a fun, colourful list on paper, and placing it somewhere you visit everyday can be very motivating, and put you in the right mind-frame for the day. You can even write little notes on significant items to remind you of your goals.

3. Partner up with someone

Teaming up with friends to accomplish mutual goals is always a win-win.  
Find this photo and some fun partner workouts here!

Working on your resolutions with a friend, family member, or even a co-worker can also be a great motivator.  When one of you feel like giving up, you can push each other to keep going.  Not to mention reaping in the rewards together!

4. Don't be afraid of failure or setbacks 

Success can still be achieved after a perceived "failure"...Don't give up!  Photo from here.

Remember that a NY Resolution should be a personal choice; no one should be forcing you to do anything.  During the course of the year, don't be beat yourself up about eating that extra slice of pizza--you're not perfect!  Just be proud of how far you've come, and resume your efforts as soon as you can.

5. Be ready to make the commitment and stay disciplined

What a great quote!  Something we should all think about.  See this photo here.

Although you shouldn't be afraid to fail, make sure to take your resolutions seriously.  Without being committed and truly depriving yourself of indulgences from the previous year, you are bound to quit before next December.  That is why it is important to set goals that you are willing to "suffer" to achieve...and stick with them.

6. Download an App to keep you on track

Evernote is an effective way to keep your life organized and remember everything.  

The Nike Training Club app lets you choose workouts based on your 
personal goals, track your progress, and set your own music while getting in shape!

For 99 cents, iMood Journal is simple and cute, and helps you track what
makes you happy and upset. Rate your mood and add comments on why you're feeling that way.

Since most of us have our cell phones in hand or 2 millimeters away 99% of the time, why not put that to use for your New Year's goals?  There are apps for specific purposes (e.g. quitting smoking, losing weight, or exercising), and some just to keep your thoughts organized.  A few apps I really love are Evernote, Nike Training Club, and iMoodJournal to chart how I feel about my progress!

My New Year's Resolutions:

• Read the bible more often
• Take advantage of my school's gym (I'm paying for it anyway!)
• Get a part-time or full-time summer job that is relevant to my future career
• Respond to text messages quicker 
• Post to this blog regularly and consistently!

It is going to be tough, but when those hard times occur, keep thinking of how great you'll feel when the year is up, and the biggest reward you'll receive: a better you!

What are your resolutions for the new year?

Don't forget to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.  Have a wonderful new year and good luck with your goals and resolutions!

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