3 Tricks for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions

People can’t help but talk about resolutions this time of year. But have you noticed that 9 times out of 10 it is brought up with an implied or explicit, ‘have you failed to keep your resolution yet?’ It’s all fine and dandy to resolve to make changes for the New Year, but too often people overreach. A resolution should be life-changing. Shouldn’t it? Or is that part of the reason so many people fail to keep them?
Whether you’re resolving to be a better employee, learn a new technical skill, eat healthier, or spend more time with your kids, we hope these tricks can help you keep your resolution for a great 2013.
1. Wait a Week.
One of the reasons people fail to keep their resolutions is because they are made in a euphoric moment of ambition. It’s a fresh new year, a fresh new start. But as the sugar high of the holidays wears off, people fall into that January slump. Sure the stores are already selling Valentine’s Day themed decorations and candy, but what is there to look forward to in the long winter ahead?  The first week of the year is a letdown for the majority of people, which makes it difficult to be motivated. By the time you get to January 7^th, you’re disappointed in yourself and your failure. Not a great way to start the year! But what if you wait until January 7^th to make your resolution? You’ve given yourself a week off to mope and recover, and you may just be ready to start something new.
2. Set a Time Frame for Completing Your Goal.
When my sister was in college, she decided every month deserves a celebration and so began a tradition of ‘new month’s eve’. At this monthly celebration on the last evening of each month, everyone gives a resolution for that month only.  As well as giving you another reason to sip champagne, it allows you to set a much more manageable goal. They say it only takes 3 weeks to form a habit, so by the last week of that month you should be well established in that resolution and ready to move on to your next one.
3. Be Realistic and Keep Your Resolutions Small.
Being overly ambitious is another reason so many people fail to keep their resolutions. Small goals are more attainable so breaking up your resolution into smaller parts is helpful. It’s important to examine your own strengths and weaknesses prior to making your resolution and consider how you can realistically succeed. Then create a resolution you’re confident you can achieve.
Remember, you’re not going to conquer the world overnight, but you can start by making yourself the person, employee, or boss you want to be. And, if your resolution involves a new job or the growth of your IT department, we resolve to continue to place you first to help you achieve your goals.