The New Year is only a few weeks away, and people around the globe are taking the time to reflect on 2016 and the changes or improvements they want to make in the upcoming year.
According to a research study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, approximately 50 percent of the U.S. population makes resolutions each New Year. Among the top resolutions are:
- Losing weight
- Exercising regularly
- Quitting smoking
- Managing money better
- Reducing debt
Research also shows that even with all good intentions, most people struggle with their New Year’s resolutions and abandon them by the spring. So, if you’ve decided to make New Year’s resolutions for 2017, here are some steps you can take to make them work:
- Focus on one resolution and set realistic, specific goals.
- Change your behavior. A key component to attaining your goal focuses on adopting new behaviors and thought patterns to help change habits.
- Don’t just make resolutions on New Year’s eve. Instead, make it a year-long process.
- Take baby steps. Many people give up on their resolution because the goal is too big, which requires too much effort and action all at once.
- Work with an accountability buddy. This person should be someone you are close to you and whom you’ll have to report your successes or challenges.
- Celebrate your success between milestones and don’t wait until you reach your ultimate goal.
- Focus on the present. What’s the one thing you can do today, right now, toward your goal?
Wishing you good health and happiness in the New Year!
*Source: American Psychological Association, http://apa.org/
*Source: Psychology Today, www.psychologytoday.com
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