Reframe your resolutions
I am writing this post 3 weeks into a new year but the information can be applied anytime it fits in your life. The approach of a new year also brings with it the chance to start, begin or create some fresh changes. Unfortunately new years resolutions tend to be vague with out any plans as to how you will implement the resolution. This tends to set us up for what we consider failure or feel overwhelmed. There are several different ways you can approach these changes, a few ideas below.
1. Rather than setting a new years resolution such as 'I am going to be active 30 minutes a day.' If you have not already had an activity plan it is tough to jump right in to 30 minutes every day. Instead implement a monthly resolution to get in a walk 3-5 times a week and rather than set a time frame plan your route, be it short or long and make it part of your schedule. Each month revisit your plan whether it is increasing the number of days, setting a distance goal or trying another activity. This is just one example but you can take any resolution and break it down into a smaller goal.
2. Reframe your resolution as a new habit and create an achievable goal. If you are trying to quit smoking create a small goal, for example; if you smoke 2 cigarettes in a row aim for just 1 or if you smoke in your car consider a goal of no smoking in the car. In 3-4 weeks re-evaluate and create a new goal to get you closer to that new habit. You are less likely to abandon achievable goals and you can focus on creating new habits for the long term and a natural part of your routine.
Approaching these new habits in bite size goals make them more flexible and focus more on the process rather than the outcome. If you make a mistake or slip you can just re-evaluate and maybe consider making the goal a little smaller, to get back on track. Creating new habits is a more effective, flexible and sustainable approach to achieving your goals.
Sincerely,
Ricarda 'Ricki' Alleman
😎🎉🎆
Be safe, be happy, be healthy
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