Make your new year resolutions work

How many times have you set new years resolutions and a month later you can barely remember what they were? It’s easy to come up with some great ideas when you are relaxing at the beach but once you are back at work they usually get lost amongst all the things you do in your day to day life.

Research suggests that approximately half of all Americans make New Year’s resolutions yet only 8% actually achieve them. So how can you be become one of those few who manage to achieve their new years resolutions?

Be specific about your goals

Clearly define what it is that you want to achieve. It’s easy to have a goal to be better with your money for example. But what does that mean? For goals to be effective they need to be SMART goals: specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time based. A more effective goal might be “I am going to pay off $10,000 of debt by 31 Dec 2016” or “I’m going to save $100 per week every week for the rest of the year”. You need to have looked at your budget to see if this is in fact achievable.

Schedule time for them

How often do you hear people say they can’t find the time to do something? Most of us are challenged by time and would like more hours in the day. In my experience you fail to find time to do something it’s because you do not make it important enough. If you genuinely believe your goals are important and make them a priority you will find the time. I find using a combination of tasks lists and appointments, especially reoccurring ones, in my diary to be very effective.

Tell everyone

It may take a lot of courage to announce your goals to other people however having the support of others is very helpful and can dramatically increase your chances of success. It could be in the form of sharing them with your best friend or telling everyone in your facebook community. Think about what might work best for you.

Track your progress

A fundamental principal for success is “If you can measure it, you can change it”. Measurements are a source of motivation. They enable you reflect on where you started and where you are now. They will also help you to identify where you get stuck in your progress so you can adjust your efforts.

Be patient & don’t be too hard on yourself

Rarely is progress consistent. Some people will see rapid gains only to hit resistance later in their efforts. For others, initial progress may be painfully slow but then they suddenly achieve rapid breakthroughs. Making lasting changes takes time. Don’t turn relapses or temporary failures into total meltdowns or excuses for giving up. Instead, just acknowledge the mistake and recommit to the path.

 

Lisa Dudson is a bestselling author and Registered Financial Advisor with over 15 years industry experience. Lisa offers financial advice through www.acumen.co.nz and co-owns the New Zealand's leading property investment agencies www.ifindproperty.co.nz & www.propertyladder.co.nz