2016 is soon coming to a close, and a new year begins. The majority of us are creating the ever so famous tradition of the New Year’s resolutions list. The list that we preach to ourselves at the beginning of each year.

This year I will be diligent about my dieting and get down to my goal weight.  This year I’m really getting serious about……

This year I plan to put more energy towards….

myself, my family, my children, my work, my peace of mind, my animals, my relationships….and the list goes on.

By definition a resolution is the decision to do or not to do something. This is great, especially in theory. However if action steps are not both planned, developed, and executed, one’s resolution gets added to next year’s resolution list.  Does it seem that you’ve had the same New Year’s goals, or personal verbal commitments? If so, this article may be just what you need to read, whether your an Acton, CA resident, or a resident of Tim-buck-too.

It’s easy to calm ourselves and our minds with what we plan to do. Just getting that list down feels good. In our minds things are going to be different each year. And then something comes up, or happens, or offers an immediate excuse for the postponement of what we had the best intentions to being doing or stop doing. So what can we do?

There are a couple of ways to rewire the way we do things to promote results. First of all, ask yourself why you want to do what you are saying. Is it for you? Is it for someone else? Is it for a short term success? Long term success? Are you really attached to why you are doing it? Defining why you plan to out energy and action towards a goal, thought or plan is essential for success. If you don’t know why you are doing something, it’s hard to keep going.

Next once you understand why you are willing to put the time, and energy into your resolution, it’s important to define what it will take to make it happen, as well as be prepared for the obstacles you may face. Obstacles and speed bumps exist…end of story. It’s important not to focus on them, but to have a plan when they do arise.  Next you must remember that if you fall down, you stand back up. Falling does not mean your legs are broken, it means they weakened for a moment, but you will stand again. Identifying what created the weakness and then preparing and strengthening those muscles will keep you on the road to success.

Example- I want to lose 10lbs.  Ok, why? Once you’ve answered that, next is how? If you’ve defined that, then what obstacles could arise that may impede your positive efforts? A impromptu get together with unhealthy food…what will you do? Family that is not on the same page as you and eats poorly around you…what will you do? Developing plans for things that impose on your quest for success is very, very important. If you slip and eat horrible, don’t throw in the towel. Jump back on your wagon and keep moving.

Of course writing this is simple, as is reading it. It is remembering and acting on these things in the times you need to most that is not so easy. Keep that in mind when the going is tough. Develop something that helps to keep you on track.

Suggestions:

• Reading or listening to a book that keep you feeling inspired.
• The company of friends are family that support you.
• Taking time out for yourself and something that is good for you and feels good to you. That may mean you have to tune into yourself a bit.
• Taking 10 minutes in the morning when you awake to remind yourself of “why” you are putting time and energy into what you want to change or develop.

As another yearly chapter closes, let’s develop habits that promote our health and well being, as well as the betterment of others.

Cheers to your 2017 journey!