At this point in the year, most people have given up on their New Year’s resolutions. Here are some of the main reasons why.
Not Tracking Progress
One of the primary reasons why people give up on their New Year’s resolutions is because they don’t track their progress. First of all, how can you expect to accomplish something if you don’t even know how close you are to getting there? That’s like racing without a track. You can’t get to where you’re going without knowing where you’ve been.
No Social Support
One of the best ways to achieve resolutions is by trying to complete them with someone else! That way, you can hold each other accountable. If you’re going it alone, you need to at least have others close to you acknowledge and support your goals. For instance, if you’re trying to lose weight by eating healthier and exercising more, communicate to your partner that you don’t want junk food in the house and inform them of your exercise schedule so they can respect your commitment to a healthier lifestyle. If you set an example, they may even join you!
Lack of Commitment
Some people make a resolution without knowing their “why,” or reason for making one in the first place, so they don’t become fully committed. Are you trying to lose weight because everyone else is? Or is it because you want to lower your risk for heart disease? Maybe you want to fit into that old pair of jeans again. In order for a resolution to succeed, you need to take action on a regular basis, which in turn creates more motivation. A lack of total commitment at the start will guarantee failure in the end.
Expecting Immediate Results
Resolutions are meant to be a long-term process. Don’t treat a marathon like a sprint. That’s why it’s important to set smaller goals along the way. Don’t get stuck in a “There’s no end in sight” mentality. The results you see will correlate with the amount of work you put in. Keep in mind, some significant results take time.
Early Feeling of Failure
Giving up on your resolutions can be the result of failing to meet certain milestones along the way, or having a goal that was too ambitious to begin with. Thoughts such as “I failed to hit my mark so I might as well stop here” may creep into your head. If you miss one of your smaller goals, don’t worry. Readjust your pace and believe that you can succeed. Small goals are there to guide you toward your long-term goal. As long as you’re making progress, you’re still in good shape!
Not Having Fun
Enjoy the process! When you’re having fun working towards your goal, you’ll be less likely to give up. Find a class, activity, or form of exercise that suits your interest. Also, as we mentioned before, trying going through the process with a friend or significant other so you can enjoy the process together!
Are you still going strong or have you given up on your New Year’s resolutions? How much progress have you made? Tell us in the comments section below!