New year, new me. This is the time when people embark on a self-fulfilling journey to be their better selves. It could be giving up cigarettes, booze or meat, or picking up a healthy habit or hobby. It all sounds good on paper but when it comes to putting in the daily grunt work, things can get challenging… and it doesn’t help that January seems to last forever! Well, with baby steps and our easy tips, perhaps you can finally achieve your New Year resolutions this year. And you’ll be saying new year, better me.
How to stick to your New Year resolutions
Just pick one
Focus your drive and energy on one resolution because you probably need time to adjust to it. It’s a behavioural change after all, and it doesn’t help when you bombard yourself with multiple goals. You’ll feel defeated and nobody needs that kind of bad energy, especially at the beginning of the year.
Make your New Year resolution realistic
Don’t reach for the stars; sometimes settling for the clouds can be better. If you’ve never done a push-up in your life, chances are, you may be wasting your money on a year-long gym membership. Setting a realistic resolution not only makes it achievable – it’s also a morale boost. May we suggest starting with hiking once a week?
Come up with a plan
Make the necessary changes a few days before the new year. That way, you’re already sort of working towards your goal before you’re meant to start. For example, if you plan on taking the Veganuary challenge, it will help to stock your pantry and fridge with plant-based treats in advance. Also, think of a Plan B just in case you fall back to your old ways. It can be reaffirming mantras or even reaching out to your friends and family for support.
Change takes time
The caterpillar didn’t turn into a butterfly overnight so don’t expect to see results immediately. Habits are ingrained in us – quitting something would probably take as long as it took you to form that habit. Repeat after us: Put in the work now and reap the benefits later.
Motivation, where are you?
Our motivation meter will be at its peak in the beginning but as the weeks pass, it will slowly start to wane and it’s almost like fighting with yourself. Don’t be hard on yourself, though – just remember why you started in the first place. If you slip up, that doesn’t mean all your efforts have been in vain. Journal your journey as it’s a learning opportunity and you’ll be more prepared the next time when you’re feeling blase.
Self-care apps to the rescue
These days, we’ve got apps for everything – no matter if you want to boost your fitness level, quit a nasty habit or pick up a new hobby. If you’re looking to stay on track and be motivated, check out Headspace and Productive. Planning to save? Money-tracking apps like Monny and Wally will come in handy. Attempting a digital detox? Do it the old-fashioned way by flipping through pages of self-help books.
Reward yourself
By that, we don’t mean breaking your New Year resolution – so if you aim to quit smoking, don’t treat yourself to a pack of ciggies. Instead, you can use the money for something else like a new running shoe or an athleisure outfit. Just make sure your reward isn’t contradictory to your goal, and you will be fine.
Now it’s time to conquer your New Year resolutions. May the odds be ever in your favour!
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