Keeping the Resolution
The New Year always brings new commitments. Here are three ways to help you have great success with your 2009 resolutions. These suggestions were provided by WomensHealth.gov.
- Be committed. You must think through what you want to change
and commit yourself to the long-term process it usually takes to
achieve change. You then need to come up with a realistic plan to help
you reach your goals, Davidson said in a statement. For example, if you
want to shed some pounds, create a weight-loss schedule and an
achievable diet and exercise plan. If your family and friends are
supportive, tell them about your goals. They can provide encouragement
and reinforce your commitment to change. If necessary, seek
professional help to assist you.
- Be prepared for setbacks. Don't think of them as complete
failures, don't dwell on them, and don't let them make you give up your
goals. After a setback, try to get back on track to reach your
objective. Plan ahead on how you'll deal with setbacks. For example, if
you do have a cigarette when you're trying to quit, your plan may
include calling a supportive friend to talk about it. Or you may want
to review all the reasons you listed for wanting to stop smoking and
why reaching that goal will make you happy.
- Track your progress. Motivate yourself by celebrating your
successes and by getting positive feedback from supportive family and
friends. A good approach is to evaluate yourself every week or two
weeks. However, don't over-monitor yourself by doing a self-assessment
every day. That's just likely to end in frustration. Don't compare
yourself to others. Accomplish your goal in a way that's best suited to
you.