Top 5 Tips to Keeping Your Resolutions

The start of a new year always seems to bring about a new set of resolutions. But we all know that most people struggle to stick to these within a couple of weeks of the New Year. So, whether your resolution relates to fitness, health, wellbeing, weight loss or personal development; here are some tips to helping your stay true to your resolutions.nn1. Write them downnnThe first tip is to write your resolution down. Some people find it helpful to place it somewhere that they will see it every day so it is a prominent reminder. Others prefer to put a copy in their wallet or on their person. It is really a personal decision. The simple act of writing down your resolution is a commitment to yourself and can help you clarify exactly what you want to achieve. nn2. Set out achievable milestonesnnFor larger goals or resolutions, it can be easier to break your success down into smaller milestones. For example, if you want to lose weight, you can break it down into a few steps along the way that are meaningful to you such as getting back into an old pair of jeans followed by buying a new pair that are even smaller than before! Try and find ways to measure your achievements that help your celebrate your success along the way. This will help you maintain your motivation over the long term. nn3. Make sure you truly want to achieve your goalnnIf you are not committed to your resolution or goal, then it is really hard to maintain your motivation. You need to genuinely want your resolution to come true. We can all make changes to our lives but you have to really want that change in order to make it happen. New Year's resolutions are typically tough tasks like quitting smoking or losing weight or changing careers. If you are unclear about whether that is what you really want, then your doubts will get in the way of achieving your goal. nn4. Find a coach or confidant nnGet some support. There are heaps of options to choose from. You can find a mentor. Ask a friend or loved one to support you. You could find an appropriate professional such as a life coach, psychologist or counselor. You can find assistance that specifically relates to your resolution such as a personal trainer, nutritionist or other natural therapies. When there is a tough road ahead, it is really important to remember that you do not necessarily need to be alone. nn5. Establish your action plannnWork out the tangible steps you will take to achieve your goal. You do not have to be a natural planner. Just work out your immediate actions. If you have attempted this goal before and it did not work out, then find an alternative approach to the last time as your first step. There are lots of ways to get to the same end point so focus on finding a solution that works for you. nnI hope these tips are useful for you in maintaining your New Year's resolutions and good luck. Best wishes for the year ahead and if you have any comments please pass them on.