It’s that time of year again – time for reflection and planning…and the New Year’s resolutions. I’m not much for resolutions, but I do set new goals each year. Some would say this is a matter of semantics, but what I like about goal-setting is that goals are definable, with a clear point of accomplishment. Resolutions have no clear end-point – perhaps that’s why so many resolutions end up broken before January is done?
Well, however you choose to look at it, here are a few tips to help turn all that New Year’s motivation into good habits for 2016 and beyond.
Pace yourself — It is very easy to get too hyped up – even “over-motivated”? – go out too hard, and then fizzle, or get injured. Start small…baby steps can add up to big payoffs down the road.
Be consistent — I’ve ever read that it takes between 21 and 28 days to build a good habit, and from personal experience I believe that to be true. A little something each day during the first 3 – 4 weeks will help ensure the new habit sticks.
Break down big goals — Sometimes it’s easy to become overwhelmed by a big goal. It’s important to track your progress and celebrate small successes along the way. Don’t shy away from dreaming big – just break it down into smaller goals.
Find a partner or group — There’s a lot to be said for being accountable to someone else and having someone to draw motivation from on those days when you’re not feeling it.
Surround yourself with success — Beware of spending time around others who don’t support your efforts – they will drain you! As much as possible, spend time with others who model the behavior/habits you’re striving for.
Remember your “why” — I find whether it’s a word, phrase or photo, posting visual reminders where you’re sure to see them will help keep your goals and your “why” front and center. Energy flows where attention goes so make your goals hard to ignore and you’re more likely to follow through.
Be prepared for setbacks — When you fall down (either literally or figuratively), the key is to not beat yourself up over it, but be willing to pick yourself up and begin again.
Great tips! I find being consistent helps! I like the remember your “why” tip! I do make goals but I try to be easy on myself so that it is still fun and attainable.
Sharon recently posted…Fun run for the Fam! Our Sacramento Santa Run 5K Race Recap 12/19/15
Good point about not being too hard on yourself – if you take all the fun out of it, what’s the point, right?
I’m not really bro resolutions either but do love your tips! Happy new year
Deborah@confessions of a mother runner recently posted…How To Support Your Friend’s Fitness Goals-guest post
Happy new year to you too Deborah 🙂
All great points, Michelle. I set more concrete goals than usual for 2016. We’ll see how I manage to stick to them.
Marcia recently posted…Watch Out 2016, I’ve Got Goals
You had some good goals Marcia – I’m betting you’ll do great!
These are really great tips! I think I need to remember my why because I have so many blogging goals that it’s making my head spin! Really giving yourself actionable goals that aren’t too big is really key.
Janelle @ Run With No Regrets recently posted…2015 Racing Awards + My 2016 Racing Schedule
Thanks Janelle. I think it can be easy to get overwhelmed by all you want to do – remembering my why really helps me to stay focused.
Great tips! I need to do better at remembering my why and sticking it out through that first 21 day period.
Thanks Coco – I’ve been taping notes to my mirror and my planner to keep my “whys” front and center. We’ll see if it helps.
These are great tips, Michelle. I use many of them when goal setting with my clients. Thanks for linking up!
Happy New Year!
Debbie @ Deb Runs recently posted…A Big Fat F
Thanks Deb! Happy new year!