7 Tips to Help You Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

by Ken Goodman, LCSW

About 45% of American adults ring in the new year with a resolution. But according to research, almost half will give up on their resolutions within six months.  No matter what you’ve vowed, here are few tips that can help you reach your goals.

1. Be specific and realistic: Instead of making a vague resolution, such as losing weight or getting into shape, set a concrete goal that you can realistically achieve. For example, commit to exercising three times or replacing one dessert with something healthier, like yogurt and fruit. Choosing a specific, achievable goal also gives you the opportunity to plan exactly how you are going to accomplish your broader goal over the course of the year.
2. Keep it simple: Many people make the mistake of creating a long list of resolutions. Instead, pick just one or two, and focus your energies on those rather than spreading yourself too thin among a number of different resolutions.
3. Get it in writing: Jot down your goals and outline small, manageable steps that will help you achieve them. Setting a big goal without a step-by-step plan can trigger frustration or negative thoughts that can get in the way of your success.
4. Cut yourself some slack: Missteps are one of the most common reasons people give up on their resolutions. But minor setbacks are completely normal and okay. If you sneak a cigarette or skip a day at the gym, don’t view it as a failure. Instead, resolve to recover from it and get back on track.
5. Reward yourself: A little motivation goes a long way to helping you keep your resolutions. So, set some short-term goals, like saving a certain amount of money or losing a specific amount of weight. When you reach that goal, celebrate by treating yourself to a small reward, such as dinner on the town or some item you’ve been eyeing at the store.
6. Remind yourself why you made your resolution: You make resolutions because there is something in your life that you want to change. If you focus on that, you are more likely to stick to your resolution. Use sticky notes. Put it in your calendar. Write it on your bathroom mirror. Do whatever you need to do to make sure you remember the reason behind the resolution.
7. Unlock the power of hypnosis: Self-hypnosis programs, like our Maximum Motivation download, are not only relaxing, but they can also help you gain the motivation and persistence to stick to your resolutions.

By following these simple steps, you’ll give yourself a better chance of attaining your goals for the new year.