This is why gyms try to push that annual membership around this time of year. They know that for about 2 weeks they will be flooded, then the big crowd will die down. But if you don’t show up and you already paid for that year’s membership…
So what is a better plan than making a bunch of resolutions?
Too often, we charge in when it would be better to assess where we are first. It's painful to look back to see our mistakes and shortcomings. And yet, it’s the best way to determine what we need to do to change our lives. Before you prepare to start the new year with loads of new resolutions and goals, take some time to reassess your life in these different areas.
Self-reflection can be difficult, but it is a necessary part of making lasting change. Now it's time to plan. You have a dream that is screaming to be brought to life. Lay out how to make it happen. Write your dream(s) and goals. When you're developing your plan, pay special attention to your habits. Better habits are what will make this an incredible year.
Photo by 胡 卓亨 on Unsplash
Break It Down
Whether you want to save for a dream home, start a business or get healthier, you need to recognize it’s going to take time. Our desire for instant gratification can lead us to give up before we even really get started pursuing our goals. Chose the one big thing you want to have by the end of the year and then break down the steps you’ll need to take to make it happen. Then break them down even further. Come up with small tasks that you can complete daily in only 10-30 minutes. That will not only help you see the goal as a journey (so you don’t give up too soon), but it also makes the goal easier to tackle.
Track Your Time
We’re all busy. But many people use busyness as an excuse for keeping the status quo, even when they say they want to change. One simple way to find “wasted time” in your schedule is to track it. For at least three days, keep track of what you do all day long. You can use an app, spreadsheet, or a simple notepad to keep track. Once you are aware of how you use your time, you can choose to reallocate any you deem as "wasted" to other tasks like to research career programs, enjoy a hobby, or spend more time with family. Whatever your goal is this year, choosing to spend your time working on it each day will make sure you end the year where you want to be.
Redesign Your Life
Most of us sleepwalk through life more often than we care to admit. If you want to live a happier, more fulfilling life, take stock of what makes you happy. What brings you joy and makes you feel alive? Now, redesign your life to make sure those things are a part of it. Look back at your time-tracking list (from above). What obligations and expectations can you change or delete entirely, so you live a life full of joy and purpose. Make a conscious decision to choose to live life to the fullest every day.
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I hope you enjoyed this article. Please leave a comment or share it to help someone else through their journey with change. Is it time for you to pivot? Change can be difficult, but you don't have to walk that path alone. Subscribe to my newsletter to get inspired and take action towards becoming a better you.
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Tracking your time is a great suggestion!
Great post Angel! Great tips for the new year!
Thank you and HNY to you too.