One month down and 11 more to go, how are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions? According to U.S. News, over 80% of resolutions fail by the beginning of February. Don’t worry we’ve been there too, but why do we fail at our resolutions? Is it because we didn’t want it bad enough, did we lose our drive, or is it because we didn’t have the time we thought we did? It could be a number of reasons, but we’re going to go over a couple of helpful tips that can hopefully help you get back on track for a successful 2019!
Finding your true motivation
Most of us will set goals such as: waking up earlier, losing weight, or reading more. However, oftentimes we don’t take the time to ask ourselves, “Why is this important to me?” It’s important that our goals are purpose driven and we understand the “why” behind our goals.
For example, a generic goal most of us has had at some point in our lives is to lose weight by summer. But do we know why this goal is truly important to us? We can use a common management process known as the “5 Why’s” to really understand the motivation behind our goals. It involves continuously asking “why” until you feel that you’ve finally reached the root cause.
- Original Goal: I want to lose 10 lbs before the beginning of summer.
Why do you want to lose 10 lbs before the beginning of summer?
- I want to lose 10 lbs because I want to look my best.
Why do you want to look your best?
- I want to look my best when I go out, whether it’s on vacation, going to the beach, or hanging out with my friends.
Why is it important for you to look your best when you go out?
- When I look good, I feel more confident about myself.
Original Mission Statement: I want to lose 10 lbs before the beginning of summer.
Revised Mission Statement: I want to lose 10 lbs, so I can feel more confident about myself.
Boom. Now which one will help you stay more motivated?
Ultimately, everyone has different motivations based on their values and beliefs. It’s up to you to find your motivation and asking yourself “why” can help you determine if your goal is truly important.
Deconstruct the goal
Now break down the goal into smaller steps. What will you need to do to lose those 10 lbs?
1. Will you have to start going to the gym or change up your current workout regimen?
2. Will you need to change your eating habits?
3. Are you surrounding yourself with others who have similar goals as you?
With Google and Youtube, the amount of resources at our fingertips are virtually unlimited. It’s good to do some initial research before you start. However, remember that reading and learning about sit ups are NOT going to get you six-pack abs. You need to take action. DO NOT fall into the trap of analysis paralysis!
Remove distractions & plan ahead
Sometimes we’re hesitant to get started because we’re afraid to fail and look stupid. Below are some ways that help us take action:
1. Block out your calendar before the week starts (we usually do it on Sundays) and make sure you commit the time to work on your goals.
2. Remove any distractions such as, turning off notifications by setting your phone to “Do Not Disturb”, turn off Netflix or anything else that is distracting.
3. Listen to motivational and inspirational videos and talks (we love this one, because it helps us get amped up).
Hold yourself Accountable.
Find friends or a Community who share similar goals.
reward yourself and celebrate the small victories.
Key Takeaways
1. Remember your true motivation and remind yourself “why” you’re pursuing your goal.
2. Break down the goal into smaller steps, but don’t fall into the trap of analysis paralysis.
3. Set aside time at the beginning of the week to work on your goals, eliminate distractions, and find a way to hold yourself accountable.