It's common for people to make the same New Year's resolutions each year. Of course, losing weight is always at the top of the list. So, how can this year be different from all the rest?
I think the first thing we need to do is realize making resolutions is just the beginning. The word resolution means decision, promise, pledge or oath. Unfortunately people set their goals and promise to make changes they never act on. Everyone wants to be in shape but our desires don't make us skinny - our actions do.
Most of us would love more money just as much as we'd love to have a great body. The reward is immense, so why don't we do what it takes to get what we want? I think we fail before we even begin. We tell ourselves we can't, we let past failures stifle future success, and we add a ton of excuses to make our failure seem more acceptable.
The next mistake is making a promise you can't keep. Setting your goals too high will set you up for failure in a heartbeat. Be realistic.
Another temptation is to quit trying. Let's say you're running a race and you fall. Are you going to get back up again and finish the race or would you be more likely to just saunter off the track and say "maybe next time". This happens with diet and exercise too often. As soon as we mess up, we quit. Before you know it, it's time to make New Year's resolutions again.
Be prepared this year. It's not a matter of whether or not you will fail, but what you plan to do when you fail so you ultimately succeed.
Lastly, resolutions don't have to be made once a year. You should make new goals each month based on your progress. This gives you the opportunity to adjust your goals and your program. Remember, nothing big gets accomplished in one day. Resolutions may be set in one day, but are accomplished by taking hundreds of tiny steps through out the year.
About Bonnie Lee Pfiester
Health Club Owner, Wife to TV Fitness Trainer and Host, Health & Beauty Columnist, Keynote Speaker, Model, Musician, Artist, Automotive/Motorcycle Enthusiast and Community Leader.
