Maybe the difference is "I want" instead of "I won't."
Or "sometimes" instead of "never."
Or making one resolution instead of 10.
We've all done it. We get enthusiastic about the new year, the fresh start,
and the possibilities it brings. We don't mean to make resolutions that will quickly be broken -- we really do want to lose the weight, get out of debt or write the novel. And then Girl Scout cookie time comes, and there goes the diet ... the car breaks down, and there goes the new budget ... we get super-busy and figure well, there's always next year for the novel.
An article on CNN today about resolutions talks about this very thing, but in a new light -- making resolutions that by their very nature help you to keep them.
From the story:
"Old resolution: I am going to lose weight-- somehow.
"People often will just set a weight-loss goal, but they don't have a good plan on how to get there," says Dr. Donald Hensrud, a preventive medicine and nutrition specialist for MayoClinic.com. Without a detailed plan, you can't measure and celebrate your progress or notice and overcome any difficulties; you're likely to go back to previous eating and exercise patterns.
"Makeover: Set a goal that is "specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and trackable," Hensrud says. Walk for 15 minutes three times a week after work, or cut your meat intake in half while adding an extra serving each of fruits and vegetables, he suggests. Focus on changes that you can make a part of your lifestyle easily and seamlessly so you'll be able to sustain the changes for the long haul."
My old resolution might have been to lose 30 pounds by spring. My new resolution might be to lose 5 pounds a month and keep it off. The second one seems much more doable.
Maybe you resolve to do 10% better on your debt each month, or write a chapter of the novel in the next 60 days. Just one goal, and a time frame that works.
Here's a link to the article:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/12/24/diet.trends.resolution/index.html
Tell us
Can you remake an old resolution so it feels like you'll have a greater chance of success?