As this crazy whirlwind of a year comes to an end, rather than reflecting on all the damage it has done, let’s try to focus on what the new year has to offer. Trust me, I’ve had my lazy days stuck quarantining just like you, so there is no judgement here. While the New Year is slowly creeping up on us, it’s time to start thinking of our New Year’s resolutions.
Craziness in the world and our country aside, these resolutions are about you. While setting these goals, focus on yourself and what you would like to personally achieve this year. The purpose of creating these resolutions is to build habits that stick with you all year long, not to get you in the gym for a couple of days and then back on the couch.
Although we have 365 days from when the beginning of the new year starts, planning out your resolutions now will put you one step closer to achieving your goals. Building habits and progress happens one day at a time. Starting early will only benefit you in the end. While everyone’s resolutions are different, the most typical ones we always hear are: Get more exercise, budget money better, eat healthier, etc. Rather than just listing those obvious things that everyone else wishes to do as well, I encourage you to really plan it out. Keep those basic goals, but really go in depth with them.
Do not just say what you want to do, tell yourself how you are going to do it. Planning out your New Year’s resolutions is a way to commit yourself to these goals. Create a workout schedule that will challenge you to keep going, build that budget plan for your money, and plan out your meals. Everything you wish to achieve is completely up to you.
New Year’s resolutions do not have to just be about fitness goals and money. They can be to simply spend more time with your family, learn a new hobby, spend more time outside, or even to laugh more. No matter what your goals are, plan on writing your list before the new year actually starts. Create a list of 5-10 goals to achieve this next year. Anything over 10 may be overwhelming and difficult to actually achieve. Once you have your list, slowly go out of your way to bring these goals to life. Every day, do little things that will make you feel happier and one step closer. Take these goals one step and one day at a time. While Jan. 1 is just another day, use this as an excuse to better yourself as a person.
Let’s make the year of 2021 be a year full of joy, love, quality time, progress, and success. Encourage your neighbors, friends, and family to create their lists ahead of time. Keep your inner circle accountable this year. You could even compare your list to someone else’s, so you can find a workout partner or maybe someone who would like to take lessons with you. Who knows, maybe someone in your family feels like they need more quality family time as well. Goals are always achievable, but having someone trying to achieve them with you will allow you to stay more motivated.
The drive and determination to accomplish your resolutions is essential. Without that drive, there is no way to reach your goals. Walk into the new year with a positive and motivated mindset. It is totally up to you to achieve your goals.