Tip Tuesday – Realistic Resolutions

Be realistic about what you can truly accomplish! Many people get overwhelmed when they take on too many drastic changes at once, especially after the excess of the holiday season. Keep things simple for yourself. Staying realistic will make it easier for you to form new positive habits, and, in turn, the results you achieve will incentivize you to maintain those habits. 

One idea is to link something you already do consistently to something that you want to do. For example, I want to stay hydrated during these dry winter months, so I drink a full glass of water before every meal. A friend takes her vitamins every night, as they are right next to where she charges her phone. 

Or try this idea from a client who never missed her weekly yoga class. She has her baby sitter come one hour before the class so she is “off duty” and can spend 45 minutes on her mail and must do’s from the previous week. In that small amount of time she really focuses and gets it all done. Then she rewards herself with the class, and 15 extra minutes to chat with friends.

One other approach is to create “micro-goals,” which amount to something greater. I have a client who has resolved to toss or donate just ONE item each day this year. If she keeps it up, she will have 365 less things in her home. And that is something to really celebrate!

Share your tips for keeping resolutions in the comments below.

Wishing you a Happy New Year from all of us at Simplify You!