As of the date of this post, we are one week into 2024. Did you make any resolutions for for this new year? How about last year? And did you manage to follow through? As I’m sure you’ve heard (or know from your own experience), very few completely follow through with their new year’s resolutions. But why is it so hard to follow through? There are several reasons, including:
They’re currently unattainable
Sometimes we make resolutions that are unrealistic or too difficult. They may require resources that we don’t have, or they may require changes in behaviour, habits, or lifestyle that we are either unable, unwilling, or unready to change at this time.
Strategy for success: Set specific realistic, attainable resolutions that are within our abilities and means.
We're thinking about what we should do rather than what we want to do
Resolutions are more likely to succeed when they align with our desires, interests, and values. When our resolutions are based on what we truly want rather than what we perceive is expected of us or what we feel we should do, we are more likely to stay committed and motivated to achieve them.
Strategy for success: Ensure our resolutions align with our desires, interests, and values.
We aren’t ready
It’s traditional to make New Year’s resolutions and in theory, it does seem like the perfect time to make a change or a new start, but sometimes we're not mentally or emotionally prepared to make the necessary changes. It takes time to prepare for change, and without the right mindset, it becomes difficult to commit to and maintain new behaviours or habits.
Strategy for success: Make sure we are mentally and emotionally ready to commit to change. If the start of the new year is not the right time for us, that's okay.
The resources we need aren’t available
Without access to resources, achieving our resolution becomes challenging. Whether it's information, skills, funds, time, or external support, having the necessary resources can significantly impact our ability to succeed.
Strategy for success: Identify the resources that are necessary and ensure that we either have them or have the means and ability to acquire them.
We don't have a plan
Planning may seem like a chore, but some of us need this kind of structure. Planning provides a roadmap to help us stay on track, especially during challenging times.
Strategy for success: If winging it doesn't work for us, it can be helpful to set goals and define measurable milestones, targets, and deadlines. We should also try to anticipate obstacles and challenges and how we can overcome them.
We aren’t motivated enough
Sustaining motivation over an extended period can be challenging, especially when faced with setbacks which can lead to giving up on our resolutions.
Strategy for success: Maintain focus on why we chose the resolutions we did and reward ourselves when we reach a goal or milestone.
Our priorities or values changed
As life evolves, changes in personal or professional circumstances can alter our priorities or values leading to a shift in focus away from our initial resolutions.
Strategy for success: Modify or change our resolutions. Or accept that this may no longer be the right time – or that perhaps our resolutions are no longer a good fit for us.
We don’t have enough faith in ourselves
Self-doubt can be an obstacle to achieving our resolutions. Believing in our ability to make the desired changes and overcome challenges is necessary for success. Without self-confidence, it's easy to become discouraged and give up on our resolutions.
Strategy for success: Focus on our strengths and positive qualities. Find friends, family or other sources of support who are willing to be our cheerleaders. If self-doubt is a pervasive issue, consider seeking the support of a therapist.
In Conclusion
Making and keeping resolutions is a common challenge, but by understanding the potential obstacles and implementing effective strategies that work for us, we can significantly improve our chances of success. With clear intentions, realistic goals, and a well-defined plan that aligns with our priorities and values we can turn our resolutions into achievements.
