6 Steps to New Year Resolution Success

New Year...new you. Whether it’s losing a few pounds, kicking a smoking habit or saving money, we’ve all been on this merry-go-round. The New Year starts with grand plans of transforming yourself into a flawless version of human. You’ve practically already photo-shopped your face onto a Baywatch body and can see your six-pack-self running on glistening white sands.

Fast-forward 6 weeks from now, you’re only half a pound down, already dug into your savings to fix the geyser and your little one has you sleepless and stressed with teething issues. Bye-bye Baywatch, hello reality. Don’t get ahead of yourself with unrealistic expectations of a one month wonder. Yes, it can be done with lots of discipline and determination, but sometimes life does get in the way. So don’t be too hard on yourself, it is best to go about your transformation in a smart and fail-proof way to make it last.

Looking to make a few changes? Here is how to do it successfully.

Decide on a goal and write it down. Stick it on the fridge, post in on the wall or make it your computer screensaver. Want to start saving? How much do you commit to put away each month? Want to get fit? Set yourself a goal to be able to run 5 kilometres within 2 months or to finally get that half-marathon under your belt. Be specific on the what, when and how of your goals.

Some people find an all-or-nothing approach easier than easing into change. Decide which is best for you, without having unrealistic expectations. Perhaps you find it easier to cut out one cup of coffee per day than going completely cold turkey from the get-go.
When exercising it is however, best to start slowly ( in accordance with your fitness level ). This will prevent injuries by doing too much too soon.

Whether you have a trainer, dietician, appoint a friend, or see a financial counselor, being accountable can make a huge difference. You can even ask your partner to keep you accountable, motivated and focused when you find it hard to do so.

Reward yourself for goals achieved. When you’ve dropped a dress size, please, go ahead and buy a new one! When you’ve reached your 5km goal, get a new pair of running shoes. You could even convince your partner to treat you to a reward if you reach your goal. This way you can’t cheat and reward yourself before getting to the finish line.

Don’t lose focus if you slip up. Rome wasn’t built in a day. There are going to be days when you sneak that cupcake from the kids’ school party. If that does happen, don’t throw in the towel. Just because you slipped up once, doesn’t mean you can stop working towards your goal.

If you forget anything that’s been said thus far just remember this one key principle to achieving anything – CONSISTENCY. Twenty minutes of running may not seem like much, but 20 minutes every day will produce results. Saving 1 pound a day may seem futile, but after a few months you will be astounded at what your consistent effort has produced. No matter how small the change, being consistent is your key to success! Small changes daily equal big results over time.

Good Luck! You can do whatever you set your mind to!

What goals do you plan on reaching in 2018? Tell us below.