Dec 28, 2022

Tips to Help You Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

A notebook with the words, "New Year Goals" written on it.
Note: This post features businesses participating in our Local Business Partner Program

It’s that time of year again. Do you have a list of New Year’s resolutions you’re looking to accomplish? Here's how to choose the right resolution to make your life better, make a plan to achieve it, and join the few who actually succeed in their New Year endeavors.

Be specific about the right goal

Millions of adults make the same New Year's resolutions every year, including to "be more productive," "lose weight," and "get in shape" for the coming year. These resolutions frequently fail because they may be the wrong ones. Instead of choosing resolutions in response to suggestions from other people or society, pick a resolution that will work for you. Resolutions can also fail if the goals are too vague and you don't have a practical strategy in place to carry out your resolutions. Focus on something more measurable that you can realistically aim for rather than choosing a goal that is so loosely defined.

You might choose to complete a 20-mile hike, make daily to-do lists, or lose 8 pounds, for instance. Ensure that you establish a reasonable, not an extreme, goal. By selecting a specific, attainable goal, you have the chance to precisely plan how you will achieve (and maintain) your goal throughout the year.

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Create a plan and keep track

You can remain committed to your goal by writing out a thorough plan. Why does this phase matter so much for success? One benefit is that it enables you to plan out your strategy for the obstacles you'll face along the way. What tactics will you utilize to maintain your course toward making your resolution a reality when things get tough?

Spend some time writing down your objectives, along with a timetable for achieving them. Then, over the course of the year, establish checkpoints and monitor your progress. You'll be more likely to keep your resolution and overcome any obstacles if you’re clear on what you want to accomplish and any challenges you might encounter.

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It’s all about baby steps

A common reason why so many New Year's resolutions fail is taking on too much too soon. Your plans will undoubtedly fail if you start an unsustainable diet, go overboard in the gym, or drastically alter your usual behavior. Instead, concentrate on making tiny progress toward your larger objective.

Start by substituting a few less healthy foods with more nutrient-dense alternatives if you're trying to eat healthier. After that, focus on another aspect of your diet, such as eating out less,  increasing the variety of vegetables you eat or cutting back on portion sizes.

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Talk about your resolutions

You’re not the only one who’ll have New Year’s resolutions, so you don’t necessarily have to face the challenge alone. Be sure to share your goals with friends and family, and ask them what sort of resolutions they have in mind. Discuss what works and where you need help while offering support to one another and possibly working toward the same goals. 

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Learn, adjust and keep going

The initial motivation that many people had at the beginning of the year often fades out by March. Work toward your objectives even after experiencing setbacks to maintain that motivation. Develop a new strategy and plan if your current strategy isn't working. You'll be more successful if you can be adaptable with your plan and even your ultimate objective.

Think about keeping a resolution journal where you can record your accomplishments and setbacks. To keep yourself inspired and motivated, write down the reasons you are working toward your goal so you can refer to them later. Consider what is making you stumble (like stress from work or home life) and how to handle it successfully.

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*Fees may apply if the recommendation includes the purchase of investment or insurance products. 
*A $4.95 monthly fee applies when you enroll for Checking PLUS. You may cancel at any time by contacting the credit union by phone at 520-794-8341, through secure email form, or in person at any Hughes branch location.