Health Advocate Blog

How to set achievable New Year’s resolutions

There is no better time than the start of a new year to make resolutions to reset any unhealthy habits and make a plan of action to improve your mental, physical and financial well-being. Have you set your resolution yet? If not, the tips below can help you choose your resolution wisely!

Choose something that really interests you. Avoid choosing cliché New Year’s goals. Think long and hard about what you would like to accomplish in the coming year.

Consider your resolution as a long-term goal. Trying to achieve your resolution in a short amount of time can make it difficult to maintain when you reach it. Understand that it is going to take time to succeed in your resolution. Click here for tips to help!

Think simple. Be sure your goal is relatively easy. Although you shouldn’t choose a resolution that is too easy, tackling too much too quickly can result in failure, which may reduce your confidence in achieving future goals.

Compare your new resolution to previous years’ resolutions. Use resolutions you set in the past as opportunities to learn from your successes or work through your short comings. Consider what you did well, what you could do better, and what you’d like to change moving forward.

Recognize you may need longer than a year. Some goals may just take time. Don’t be too hard on yourself if it is not something attainable over the course of a year. Ever step you take toward meeting your resolution is a step in the right direction!

Take action. Determine what your New Year’s resolution will be for the upcoming year and how you plan to keep it! Try these ideas to help you stick to your resolution:

  • Be flexible. Sometimes life can get in the way when trying to meet your goals. If you find yourself off course, re-adjust your goals to make them more attainable during hectic times.
  • Share your goals. Sharing your goals with others may help you stay on track through increased accountability and support. Click here for tips to help you work together with others to reach your New Year’s health goals.
  • Reward yourself. Each time you meet a goal or milestone, consider rewarding yourself. This can help you maintain your new, healthy behaviors.
  • Stay positive. Don’t let setbacks keep you from accomplishing your goals. Use them as learning experiences to empower you!