2017 is almost over and if you’re like me you are probably thinking about this past year’s good and bad. Like me, I’m sure you have had successes and I’m sure their have been some failures as well. I often find that I had good intentions and was determined at the beginning of the year to do everything I set out to do. But inevitably my new year’s resolutions were lost at the wayside during the course of the year.
Set Small Resolutions
So why does this happen? For me it’s trying to do too much. I’ve learned to start small. This can mean a couple things. Small can mean breaking your over all resolution up into small achievable goals. It can also mean if your resolution is is big (such as going back to school) that you only focus on that for the upcoming year. The important thing is to keep it small.
Seek Support From Friends and Family
Make sure to talk with others about what it is you’re trying to do for your new’s resolution. I would recommend talking to a good friend or your spouse about what it is you want to do since they will be interested in your progress. Doing this helps you stay committed since your friend or spouse will often ask how its going with your resolution.
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
If you have set backs don’t beat yourself up. There is no need to create more anxiety for yourself by doing this. Life happens and you’re busy. Instead of beating yourself up, resolve to get yourself back on track. Remember perfection is unattainable and missteps are normal and okay.
Professional Support Can Help
If your resolution seems to be causing you more stress and anxiety than you can handle seek out professional help. Psychologists can offer strategies on how to manage stress and anxiety related to your goals as well as address anything else you may need in order to better yourself.
Everyone needs to address specific needs and behaviors with new year’s resolutions. One new year’s resolution I think is good for everyone (especially me) is to improve your marriage. I think everyone that is married would agree that there is always something that can be done to make marriage better for you and your spouse.
The author of the blog Mother’s Niche recently made available a marriage course titled “30 Days To A Better Spouse.” The course curriculum for this course covers topics such as:
- Expectations
- The 100% Principle
- Intuition & Emotional Maturity
- The Comparison Trap
There are many things you can set out to accomplish for the year 2018. Losing weight, going back to school to get that degree, following a budget, or simply trying to be more charitable. Whatever it is, I hope my tips help make the upcoming year great!
