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Let’s get real. New Year’s resolutions often sound great on paper but somehow almost never translate into real-life success.
It has happened to me. I’d bet it has happened to you, too.
We start the year with grand plans to get in shape, start a business, or be more productive, but as the weeks roll by, those plans fade. Life always seems to get in the way of our good intentions.
But could it be that our approach might be off the mark? Is it time to try something different?
Today, we dive into eight resolutions that can actually create lasting change. These aren’t lofty once-off goals that quickly get put aside when the going gets rough; they are small but powerful habits we can all build.
Let’s get to it.
1. To develop a morning routine and stick to it
Think of anyone you know who has their life together. They are probably up earlier than most, engaging in activities that boost their energy and focus for the day ahead.
Whether exercising, meditating, reflecting, or simply planning their day, successful people understand the power of starting the day with purpose and clarity.
And it works. Last year, I decided to start waking up an hour earlier to include a 30-minute workout and 15 minutes of journalling in my morning routine. It was tough initially, but once it became a habit, the difference was remarkable.
Not only have I felt more energized and focused throughout the day, but my productivity has also risen.
If you haven’t already got one, consider developing a morning routine that suits you – it could include reading, exercising, meditating, or simply planning your day. If that means getting up a bit earlier, that’s what it means.
Yes, it takes discipline to build, but it was a game-changer for me and can be for you, too.
2. To spend a specified amount of time learning every single
As Benjamin Franklin once told us, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
And that was in the 1700’s. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s possibly even more important; learning can’t stop once we’re out of school or university.
So how about setting aside 3o minutes a day or two hours every Saturday to learn? It could be as simple as reading a book, taking an online course, or even learning a new language.
Not only does this expand your knowledge and skills, but it also keeps your mind sharp and can open up new opportunities.
3. To follow a regular exercise schedule
Picture this: It’s the end of a long workday, and you’re exhausted. You promised yourself a workout, but the couch looks incredibly inviting. You give in, convincing yourself that you’ll exercise tomorrow. But tomorrow never comes.
Sound familiar?
It’s essential to establish an exercise schedule, regardless of how packed your days might be.
The secret lies in choosing physical activities that are not overwhelmingly strenuous but are consistent and enjoyable. This could be anything from a quick, brisk walk to a gentle yoga session.
Make it easy to get started; we have to walk before we run. The aim is to integrate exercise seamlessly into your daily routine, making it as routine as brushing your teeth.
4. To truly disconnect at least once a week
In this digital age, our lives have become intertwined with technology. Most of us work online, we often socialize online, and we probably get much of our entertainment online.
While it undoubtedly has its benefits, it’s crucial to disconnect once in a while.
According to a 2018 study, limiting our use of social media to approximately 30 minutes per day can lead to significant improvement in well-being, specifically reducing loneliness and depression.
Sure, we can’t avoid tech all the time, but we can make it a resolution to embrace a digital detox regularly. It could be an entire day without your devices or setting aside specific tech-free hours each day.
Using this time for personal growth, reflection, or even catching up on your favorite book can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health.
5. To actively cultivate positive relationships (and ditch toxic ones)
It’s no secret that we become more and more like the people we spend time with.
Want to succeed and excel?
Spend time with those who inspire you, lift you up, and make you feel good about yourself. Make it specific, perhaps a bi-weekly or monthly thing.
Conversely, distance yourself from toxic or negative influences that drain your energy.
6. To master the art of time management
How often do you wish there were more hours in a day?
I know I do it often. But it is the way it is, right?
Well, sort of. While we can’t control the number of hours, we can certainly control how we use them. Effective time management is key to getting ahead in life, and it all starts with setting clear priorities.
This year, you might find it beneficial to resolve to manage your time better. Utilize tools and techniques such as to-do lists, time blocking, or the Eisenhower Box to organize your tasks.
Could diving deeper into time management techniques be part of the learning schedule I suggested in point two?
It sure could.
7. To learn to embrace failure as part of your journey
Thomas Edison once said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
Sure, it sounds a bit cheesy, but it encapsulates the mindset of almost every successful person.
Nobody likes to fail. It’s disappointing and can often lead to self-doubt. However, it’s important to remember that failure is an integral part of the journey to success.
Make the coming year the year that you change your perspective on failure.
Instead of viewing it as a setback, see it as a learning opportunity because that’s what it is. Every failure brings with it a lesson that can help you grow and improve.
8. To give thanks every day
It’s easy to lose sight of what we have while chasing what we want. However, studies have shown that practicing gratitude can lead to increased happiness, optimism, and motivation.
Who knew, eh?
This year, make it a point to practice gratitude daily. It could be as simple as jotting down three things you’re grateful for each day or taking a moment to appreciate the good in your life.
Success isn’t just about getting more; it’s also about appreciating what you already have.
The bottom line
The key to real and lasting change lies in building small but powerful habits.
These resolutions are more than just yearly goals; they’re lifestyle changes that can lead to profound personal growth and achievement.
Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive; we’d love to hear from you. What are your resolutions for the coming year?
Keep the conversation going in the comments below.
