Tips to Maintain Your New Year’s Resolutions

By: Carla León Celaya

Holiday celebrations are over and we somehow managed to make it through all the parties, the excessive calorie consumption and all the free spending. Now, all you have left is a paper, completely filled out with all of your goals and intentions for 2017.

Everyone knows that many people don’t accomplish what they set on their list – whether it’s because of unforeseen circumstances, work, health issues, or just the wrong timing – some people don’t get to check off all their resolutions.

But you shouldn’t let yourself get discouraged because there are those who see their wishes through to fruition – rather,  do something about it.

Here are a few tips that have helped me and others reach our New Year’s goals:

Break it Down:

Whether it be a short or long term goal, break it apart. Really understand what you are after, and your intentions behind it. Will it support other areas of your life? Are you going to grow as a person? Sometimes we set goals without a clear understanding of what we want. Make sure you truly know what it is you are after.

Create a Timeline

Once you have full understanding of your goals for this 2017, create a timeline. Whether it be a short or long term goal, you need a game plan. Unfortunately, you can’t just wing it or let it unfold in front of your eyes. Grab the pen, and be detailed: what are your daily, weekly, monthly goals? A game plan will keep you on track! Write it down, then take action.

Tell Someone

Talk about your goals and ideas with someone you trust. Share it with someone who is honest and that knows you well. Remember, however, that you aren’t sharing to make the other person responsible for keeping you on track or to motivate you. It’s nice to say things out loud, and why not say it to a friendly ear. Who knows, that person might even give you advice without you expecting it!

Be Gentle

Love yourself and be forgiving. We are only human and there is only so much one can do at a time. If you mess up or fall off the wagon, know that you can jump back on. Most people don’t reach their goals because once they make a “mistake,” they simply don’t forgive themselves and move on.