A New Year's Resolution in February? Yes!
New Years Resolution
As we celebrate the beginning of a new year, most begin asking and sharing with others about their New Year’s resolutions. A resolution is defined as a firm decision to do or not to do something, but unfortunately, 80% of those resolutions never come to fruition and most people only continue with their intention until mid-February. Now you know why gyms (pre-Covid 19) are packed in January, and then the number of members rapidly declines. Twenty percent doesn’t seem like favorable odds, so here’s something to consider.
Society has made it feel like a requirement to choose a resolution at the start of a new year, so you feel obligated to come up with one. But ask yourself if the resolution is one that you are genuinely invested in, is it one that is achievable, and is it the best time for you to be successful. It’s easy to say you are going to do something, but it’s harder to do it, especially when it comes to a lifestyle change. This type of lasting change tends to occur when a new habit is developed, and this doesn’t happen overnight. There is varying data on how long it takes to create a habit, but the average is 66 days. That’s a bit of a commitment.
A resolution doesn’t need to start on January 1st. Some will argue that this is a fresh start to a new year…a new you. However, if it isn’t the best time specifically for you, your chance of success is reduced. Select a time to tackle a new goal when you are inspired and have the drive. Common sense says don’t start a resolution if you are sick, have post-holiday fatigue, or have an important personal or work event coming up. When the time is right; and this isn’t permission to keep putting it off because we all get busy, do select a date to kick off your New Year’s resolution. Whether it’s January 1st or February 4th, this will be your own countdown to stir up some excitement and get yourself in gear to begin.
Many resolutions encompass a healthier lifestyle, and you can achieve this goal with motivation, perseverance, education, and support. Motivation is needed for obvious reasons; if you don’t feel like doing it, you won’t. Perseverance is required to make your resolution a new habit. Remember, it takes some time to shape this habit so you can’t give up easily. “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you”. I’m not sure who wrote that, but it’s very true. Change isn’t easy. It’s easier to fall back into your old routine, but that won’t allow you to achieve your New Year’s resolution.
Educate yourself on the subject so you know how to make the changes, the correct way. Consider a health or wellness consultant who can offer professional and guided instruction. Create a formal plan that lists the steps you will take to reach your goal. This is better than using an approach where you figure it out day by day. Find support in friends, family, or in a support group. Support can include a simple check in, or it can mean finding a partner to join the journey with you.
Whatever you choose your New Year’s resolution to be, and whenever you choose to start is up to you. Afterall, this is about you; not anyone else. No one likes to fail so plan your approach and strategize for the long haul, and most of all, believe you can succeed. Reward yourself at set intervals until you reach your destination. You must be your biggest fan with a positive attitude for this to work. If you think you will fall into that 80% group, you will. And, if you think you will fall into that 20% group, you will. The mindset you choose is yours. Good luck!
