Cover Tatler’s guide to staying on track with your New Year’s resolutions (Photo: Getty Images)
Tatler’s guide to staying on track with your New Year’s resolutions (Photo: Getty Images)
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Here are some ways to make sure your New Year’s resolutions stick past January 15
It’s that time again—as we gear up for the new year, many of us have begun creating our new years resolutions. But, let’s face it, as the initial excitement of January dissipates into the routine of everyday life, these goals often end up gathering dust faster than that treadmill you promised to conquer.
Paschal Sheeran and Thomas L Webb’s book titled Goal Directed Behaviour shares how more than 60 per cent of adults will make resolutions for the New Year. Yet, only nine per cent keep them for the entire year.
However, it doesn’t mean we should stop setting goals for the new year. This year, keep the fire burning with a game plan to turn these goals into reality. Below, we share some ways to stay on track with your 2024 resolutions.
In case you missed it: 5 effective ways to recover after New Year’s Eve celebrations
1. Set attainable goals
Above Picking an achievable and realistic goal will increase your chance of success exponentially (Photo: Getty Images)
Picking an achievable and realistic goal will increase your chance of success exponentially (Photo: Getty Images)
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When it comes to setting resolutions, many of us have grandiose plans to reinvent ourselves. However, these goals can be hard to maintain in the long run. So, it is important to set attainable goals when it comes to picking a resolution. According to a study by Ellen Ostrow titled New Year’s Resolutions: Resolutions for Your Personal Life, picking an achievable and realistic goal will increase your chance of success exponentially. For example, instead of resolving to go to the gym every day, strive for an attainable goal such as visiting more often than you do now.
2. Celebrate milestones while remaining adaptable
Above Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small (Photo: Getty Images)
Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small (Photo: Getty Images)
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Remember to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Celebrating these small steps will help motivate you to continue your journey. As you look back at your journey, it is also important to adapt your goals and strategies to your current circumstances. Embrace the different circumstances that come throughout the year and be open to realigning your goals.
3. Be patient and keep trying
Above Habits don’t develop instantly, but gradually through experience (Photo: Getty Images)
Habits don’t develop instantly, but gradually through experience (Photo: Getty Images)
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A study by Behavioural Science & Policy Association shares how habits don’t develop instantly, but gradually through experience. This means you can’t expect change instantly but will need to be consistent in following through with your goals, even if you don’t see any changes at the beginning. It’s important to remember that making lasting changes takes time and effort.
4. Start today
Above Starting early can help you ease into your new routine (Photo: Getty Images)
Starting early can help you ease into your new routine (Photo: Getty Images)
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Don’t wait until January 1 to get started on your new goals—it’s best to start today. Starting early can help you ease into your new routine, allowing you to stay on course for the long run. By starting your journey early, you’ll be able to create momentum carrying you throughout the new year—even if you take a tiny step, it will help set the tone for your progress. On top of creating momentum, starting ahead allows you to figure out what works best for you, and lets you tweak your approach.
5. Share your goals with others
Above A support system can help you stay motivated and accountable (Photo: Getty Images)
A support system can help you stay motivated and accountable (Photo: Getty Images)
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A study by the American Psychological Association titled Making your New Year’s Resolution Stick shares how a support system can help you stay motivated and accountable. Let your friends and family know of your plans and they can help cheer you on throughout the year. Conquering a goal with a friend can also keep you accountable, encouraging each other on your progress.
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
