By January 15th of every year 88% of people who make New Year's Resolutions have broken them. They find that they are unable to stick with them. There are a lot of different reasons.
They may have tried to do too much, too soon. They may have lacked a clear cut plan on how to achieve their goal. They may not have had the support around them.
Whatever the reason. Resolutions are about making a change. And, change is never easy. Especially if you are trying to break a habit that may have been around for ten, twenty, thirty years or even more.
When facing a particularly tough challenge or temptation, here are three proven ways that other people have used that work. They can get you through that moment of temptation and help you continue on to achieve your goal.
1. Don't negotiate with yourself. This is that moment when you start to think "well one won't hurt." It doesn't matter what the one is. It will hurt. You never negotiate with yourself about brushing your teeth. There is no question. You are going to do it. The same attitude is necessary to keep that resolution When you notice yourself starting to negotiate, stop yourself. Do something outrageous to startle yourself and break the pattern. Remind yourself that it is over and you are moving on.
2. Just get to the next meal. This is a strategy used by a Navy Seal. During some of the most rigorous training a human being can endure, when the temptation to quit was the highest, he simply focused on getting to the next meal. By focusing on this short term goal he was able to get through a tough moment. If you find yourself tempted to have that cigarette or sweet, just try holding out for a little longer. Just get to the next meal. Often the temptation passes and you can get through the moment.
3. Get help. Help does not have to be a professional. Just start talking to someone you know. Explain how you are trying to make this change and you are having a difficult time. Talk it out. More often than not, you will get the support and encouragement you need to get through it and carry on. And, sometimes you may even get some new ideas that can help you stick with it.
Do you know someone working hard to stick with a resolution? Offer a word of encouragement. Change can be difficult. But, the change is usually worth it.
Share this post with them if you think it might help. If you have any ideas on sticking with resolutions, please share them in the comments.
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