2009 is ending, 2010 is beginning and most of us are probably sitting around making a New Year's Resolution. Will it be weightloss, more patience with family, saving more money, etc...
The funny thing about resolutions is that most of us rarely stick to them. Sure they sound good for a few weeks but then we fall back into old habits. It's not because those resolutions aren't great ideas. Health and fitness and better finances are the most popular resolutions. But often we lack the support to maintain these resolutions. If we say we aren't going to fight with our loved ones, do we remember to tell them and get their buy in? If we say we are going to get healthy and eat right are we sticking to the grocery list when we shop (sticking to the list also saves money)?
New Year's resolutions are not impossible, out there pipe dreams. They are desires and goals that can be achieved. But no man is an island and often these resolutions fall by the wayside because we are not telling people. Studies show that by making statements about our decisions, out loud and to others, we are more likely to stick to them. Resolutions are no different. If you tell your friends and coworkers your plan is to eat healthier this year and then you don't, someone may say something. Instead of saying "wow that was a snide remark" remember it's your promise to yourself. OK, I know, they don't have to say it like that, but the message is probably true.
Regardless of your resolution this year you can make it work if you want to. Oftentimes we take the easy way out and fall back on old habits because they are comfortable. Stepping into the great unknown of new health or better relationships is intimidating. But the end result is in fact good health or healthier relationships. So why be afraid of it?
Of course solid support helps. Not everyone has it though. So if people undermine your diet or provoke arguments you need to build up some type of resistance.
With that I'd like to make a suggestion. Instead of making another half hearted resolution about not eating cake try this; Make your resolution to not let other's get to you (Self acceptance training can help). If you can do that, in six months you'll feel so much better about your decisions that you can start that diet or minimize family arguments.
Let's close the book on this last decade and start the next one with optimisim and the belief that we can achieve our goals. Once you believe in yourself you can make anything happen. Say goodbye to 2009 and hello to the rest of your life.
Happy New Year!
