This post was sponsored by Puritan’s Pride. All opinions expressed are my own.
You know that old saying that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Well, I disagree with that statement 100 percent, and I am proof that it’s not so accurate. If you’ve ever tried to change the way you do something, after you have done it a certain way for a long time, you know doing so can be somewhat challenging. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. It’s about this time of the year when many people find their New Year’s resolutions starting to waver. You started the year off with big goals and great resolve, but somewhere along the way you started losing momentum. This doesn’t mean you have failed or are not up to the challenge. It simply means it’s time to reevaluate your resolution and work on setting manageable goals for yourself.
I think the problem a lot of people have when making resolutions is that they think too big. I’m not saying you shouldn’t want big change and improvement. Instead, I’m saying it’s important to implement a plan of small steps that will help you achieve your goals.
Here are a few things to help get your resolutions back on track:
Don’t set yourself up for failure. Make sure the goal you set is attainable and manageable. I would love to climb to the top of Mount Everest one day, but I know that is never going to happen. This will remain a dream for me, but a more realistic goal would be to get fit enough to participate in a local run.
Be specific. Make sure you have clearly defined what you want to accomplish.
Keep it measurable by setting incremental and measurable goals. Identify targets and milestones to track your progress. For example, if your resolution is to lose weight, you might want to set a series of goals to lose weight in 5-pound increments.
It’s important to take baby steps. Making one small change can yield big rewards. It’s such a great feeling when you accomplish something, no matter how big or small. Being successful in making one small change can be the catalyst you need to make even more changes. I recently participated in the Puritan’s Pride One Small Change challenge and had some fantastic results when I stopped drinking diet soda and replaced it with water.
Lastly, I recommend that you write it all down. I know everyone is different, but for me, it’s very helpful to write things down. I recommend putting a simple binder together to help you keep track of your goals and progress.
Remember, it’s not too late to get back on track with your resolutions!
What has helped you stick to your resolutions?
Be sure to visit the Puritan’s Pride web site, Puritan’s Pride Blog, and the Puritan’s Pride Pinterest Board for inspiration to help you stick to your New Year’s resolutions!
Also, please join us (@aboutamom) tonight 1/29 at 9:00pm EST with @PuritansPride for a Resolution Reboot Twitter Party! Follow the #PuritansPride hashtag!
I set goals every year. Last year I set the bar to high and lost interest within a few months. This year I decided as you said to take baby steps to make my goals less scary and I know I can accomplish more.
Taking baby steps always help. If you rush full force into things, you’ll often just give up right away. I try to take small steps toward my goals each day.
I am not a resolutions kind of girl, but I did set some goals. So far so good. I still need to start working out. All I need is that one baby step in the right direction, and I’ll do it! 🙂 Maybe today will be the day!! 🙂
I did have goals for 2014 – reading more to our kids and eating healthier. I am still doing pretty good. But thank you for these tips! I need encouragement!
You are so right! Baby steps and not getting discouraged when I don’t meet my goals. Every day is a chance to try again.
You hit the nail on the head with giving yourself more manageable goals. I’m a visual person, so making a list sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the motivation!
Love this post. I think that’s what I always tend to forget but try to remember, small steps do make a difference.
That is very true. Start with baby steps. It is easy to get overwhelmed and throw in the towel. I am a list maker too, helps me put an order to my chaotic life. Great motivation.
I don’t make resolutions, but I do like the idea of small steps. Even during the day when I feel like I have a million things to get done, if I can do just one small thing it seems to get the ball rolling.
Nice post. My resolution is going very well and I’ve added another one on my plate which that one is all about taking steps…baby ones I am. Thanks for your inspiration.