Tips for Following Through on New Year’s Resolutions

Ringing in the New Year often comes with a list of promises on what this year will bring and how people will strive to meet their goals (common themes include pledges to attend the gym regularly). Now that 2015 is underway, checking in with the resolutions made only a short time ago can get people back on track.

Often resolutions are centered on a complete 180-degree change. Urbana High School psychology teacher Laura Koritz says this is not very realistic.

“According to the American Psychological Association, it’s best to start small and to only change one thing at a time. No one can completely reinvent themselves every year. Know your quirks and what small change will make life immeasurably better for you,” Koritz said.

Those in the habit of vowing to completely transform often recycle resolutions year after year in an attempt to finally stick to their goals. But how do we do this exactly? What motivation actually works for self-improvement?
UHS Senior Chloe Percival said, “It’s so easy to fall out of routine, and we often make excuses for ourselves, but you just need to constantly remind yourself of the end result. It’s always worth it.”

For those trying to avoid the cliché that resolutions only last for the first week of January, finding ways that work on a person-by-person basis is beneficial.

“Reward yourself,” Koritz continued. “Have a tiny piece of chocolate after going to the gym. Or … make your resolution something that’s intrinsically rewarding.”

Percival feels that her resolution to spend more time with friends before she graduates has proved to be successful thus far. “It’s definitely hard when I also have to juggle school and work, but I have to remind myself that I won’t always have these opportunities to visit with friends.”

Resolutions should be maintainable and promote overall wellness. In whatever area one feels the need for improvement, keeping in mind what motivation led to initially setting that goal lends a little perspective. Getting back on target while the New Year is still fresh will count towards achieving your goals in time for 2015’s conclusion.