The clock strikes 12:01 am the confetti pours down and a snort is heard in the air. “New New Year’s resolutions.” The new year of 2024 is a time to look forward to the promise of a new beginning and self improvement. When we are rushing to join gyms and start cleansing programs, take a moment for a second to think about whether or not these promises are only temporary and doomed to the ashes of unfulfilled goals?
What is the reason resolutions usually fail?
The numbers are grim. According to studies the majority of resolutions fail within the first 3 months. Why? Ofttimes, we succumb to the lure of simple fixes and grand declarations. We take on the fight against undesirable behaviors, and set goals that are too lofty and with no clear strategy for implementation. Failure will eventually lead to disappointment and discouragement, bringing us back to our previous ways, feeling defeated and discouraged.
Reframing resolution from the gimmicks to the growth mindset
Instead of viewing resolutions as an unchanging set of goals, view them as an intentional framework for growth. The key is to shift our focus from the end result to the process itself. Instead of chasing after an ideal body shape, focus on establishing healthy habits of eating and working out regularly. Instead of pledging to master a new language in a day and then committing to a consistent schedule of practice and celebrate the small wins along the way.
From Aspire to Action: Weaving Effective Resolutions
To create effective resolutions, you need to be able think critically and pragmatically. Here are some steps to help you along the way:
- Finding your core valuesWhat really matters to you? Are you driven by your health, creativity, personal development, or are you motivated by connecting? Aligning your resolutions to your core values can help you live your life with the sense of meaning you’ve always wanted.
- Set SMART Goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and time-bound. This framework provides you with an opportunity to base your resolutions within the real world.
- Make Small Steps to Make a Difference in Your Life: Don’t try to change your life in a day. Start with small steps that you can manage and can be adapted to. Celebrate each achievement regardless of how it appears to be.
- Flex and iterate: The world throws curveballs. Prepare yourself to alter your goals if necessary. If a goal feels overwhelming or doesn’t align with your values Don’t be afraid to change or release it.
Beyond the Individual: Resolving problems with ripple impacts
The impact of our resolutions shouldn’t have to be confined to our personal lives. Let’s take this opportunity to create positive ripples in the world. You might consider volunteering in your community, donating to a cause you care about or simply making a commitment to acts of kindness and love in the daily interactions you engage with. Keep in mind that even the smallest actions can have a huge impact on the people around you.
Conclusion Resolved Resolutions are Seeds for Change
New Year’s resolutions when made with the right intention and growth perspective, can become powerful tools to transform your life and positive transformation. If you focus your attention on small steps, prioritizing what you value, and embracing an approach that is flexible the resolutions you make can grow into something more meaningful by 2024. We must get rid of the gimmicks. Instead, we should be open to the process and develop resolutions that have a lasting impact, not just on us, but the world around us. Happy New Year and happy deliberate development!