New Years is typically a season for new opportunities and a fresh start. So it totally makes sense that many of us want to set goals and resolutions to kick off the new year.
Motivation in the early parts of January is usually pretty high, yet just a few weeks into the month, many of us are wondering if we can really accomplish these goals. The struggle to hold ourselves accountable and sustain our motivation is real despite our best intentions.
So if you think you are the only one struggling with your New Year’s Resolutions, you are not alone! In fact, according to US News and World Report (2020), nearly 80% of all resolutions fall through by February.
Eek! This is not hopeful news for those of us wanting to make a real change.
So Why Do Nearly 80% of Resolutions Fail?
To start, our goals often lack a few important qualities: First, Resolutions are not specific enough For example, we might set a basic resolution to limit our screen time. Instead, we should plan to be specific with our resolution by setting a timer for 2 hours before bedtime to put away all devices. Second, Resolutions are unrealistic For example, not eating out during the week. Especially, when you have averaged eating out for lunch and dinner 3x a week the year before. Setting a more realistic goal to cook meals at home 3x a week might be more realistic.How to Set Attainable Goals
Many of us have motivation to make the necessary changes in our lives. A lack of energy is often not the problem. The real problem is that we lack a plan and a system to implement these resolutions. So let’s get started. First, it is crucial to really dig deep before setting resolutions by asking questions like:- “How will I develop motivation?”
- “What are the steps needed to achieve my resolutions?”
- “Is this a resolution attainable?”
- What do I want to accomplish?
- Why is this goal important?
- Who is involved?
- Where is it located?
- Which resources or limits are involved?
Lastly, GET SUPPORT!
Support from others can go a long way in achieving your New Year’s Resolutions! Outside support can hold you accountable, provide you with novel perspectives, and assist in your motivation to achieve your New Year’s Resolutions. Friends and family can, at times, offer some of the best support and recommendation. In fact, the research shows that the most successful (and happy) individuals are those that readily lean on the support of others to accomplish their goals. In addition to family and friends, an outside expert perspective can also be a huge asset. At Biltmore Psychology and Counseling, our therapists offer life coaching therapy with the goal of providing individuals with insight into what motivates them, what gets in the way of their success, and how to enhance their strengths. Here are a few of the top goals for life coaching therapy:- Increased motivation and passion in one’s life
- Increased insight into motivational blocks
- Professional and personal goal achievement
- For additional information, Learn more about Life Coach Counseling
