New Year’s Goals
Published on January 4, 2022 by LMC
Every year millions of people make New Year’s resolutions to spark a positive change in their lives. Typically, these resolutions involve improving your health, fitness, finances, or relationships. Despite having the best of intentions, many people struggle to achieve their…
Every year millions of people make New Year’s resolutions to spark a positive change in their lives. Typically, these resolutions involve improving your health, fitness, finances, or relationships.
Despite having the best of intentions, many people struggle to achieve their resolutions. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, only 46% of people who made New Year’s resolutions were successful. So, in order to help you realize your New Year’s resolutions, we want to offer a few tips to encourage you as we head into 2022.
Set Goals, Not Resolutions. Invest some time in thoughtful reflection before setting your goals, and determine where you are and where you want to go. Reflect on the high and low points, but don’t stress out over them. Use this time of self-reflection to help you move forward to create your goals. Don’t get stuck on the negative things that happened. If you find you are stuck, talk to someone who can help you move forward.
Goals are the object of your ambition or effort; they are personal. If your goals have no meaning, you’re unlikely to achieve them.
Start Small. A lot of us tend to be too eager when it comes to resolutions, we have the best of intentions but take on a goal that is too big to achieve. So, this year as you set your goal make sure to start small, and divide a big goal into smaller goals that are more achievable.
Set Reasonable Goals with Realistic Expectations. Set reasonable, attainable goals throughout the year instead of one lofty goal on January 1. This can help you reach whatever it is you strive for and leads to a greater chance that you will keep them throughout the year. When setting your goals, step back and ask yourself if they’re realistic, if not, alter them to be more attainable. If you set your expectations too high, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment.
Change One Behavior at a Time. Unhealthy behaviors develop over the course of time so changing those behaviors into healthy ones requires time. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that you have to reassess everything in your life. Instead, work toward changing one thing at a time.
Ask for Support. Having a solid support system can help you stay motivated and accountable. Tell 3 people you trust and who encourage you. Explain what your goals are and ask them to help you to achieve your objectives. You could also consider joining a support group such as a workout class at your gym or a group of coworkers quitting smoking or losing weight. Having someone to share your struggles and successes with you will make your journey to a healthier lifestyle much easier and less intimidating.
It’s important to remember that the New Year isn’t meant to be a catalyst for sweeping character changes. It is a time to reflect on past behavior and promise to make positive lifestyle changes. So, as you set your New Year’s goals, we want to remind you that Life Management Center is ready to help you with family support services, mental health treatment, crisis counseling, and more. Contact us today at (850) 522-4485 to see how LMC can be a part of your 2022!
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