Do Not Delay Your Resolutions

You do not have to wait until January 1st to make resolutions. Any time of the year is a great time to make goals. Let us get started!

1) THINK AT THE MOUNTAIN TOP: Begin by finding a quiet place to sit and reflect with pen and paper in hand. Think about changes you would like to make in your life. Take notes as you think in the areas of physical, mental, spiritual, and social fitness. Start with large “10,000 foot” goals.

2) GET TO GROUND LEVEL: Break down the “10,000 foot” goals into smaller actions. Focus your actions on forming and establishing habits and behaviors that will serve you for a lifetime. Choose your goals and actions wisely – make sure they are things you can stick with and factor in variety and breaks. Ensure each goal has a time-activated plan associated with it.

3) LET OTHERS KNOW: Discuss your list with your loved ones. This can be a child, a friend, a spouse, a parent or a co-worker. Let them know you would appreciate their encouragement along the way.

4) ACCOUNTABILITY: Select a trustworthy reliable friend(s) and ask them if they will be your accountability partner and mentor. This will help you stay focused on your goal.

5) VISIBILITY: Print a small copy of your list and keep it in your wallet or purse. Email a copy to yourself and post a copy in a visible place in the house that you visit often. Write your action steps in your daily planner, calendar, or schedule.

6) START NOW: Start following the plan immediately. Focus on the process and take each step one at a time.
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7) NO BLAME ALLOWED: Look beyond “I cannot”. Focus on “I can…” and “I am”. Do not allow yourself to blame other people or circumstances for not carrying out your steps – Identify your self-defeating behaviors and deal with them instead or continuing to do them.

8) REWARD YOURSELF: Pencil in rewards in your planner as well for when you complete steps or accomplish goals.

9) RECOMMIT: From time to time, you might fall off track with your resolution. I like this one! – Use the next Monday as the day to recommit to your goals. Allow yourself a weekly chance to get back on track with your goals.