5 simple ways to stick to New Year's Resolutions

So Christmas has been and gone and it’s that time of year again.

Having made my New Year’s Resolutions (see 10 ways I’m going to try & be a better me in 2019) the question now is how to go about sticking to them.

According to life coach Dawn Ann Campbell, sales & marketing director for the International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring, 80% of New Year’s Resolutions are either forgotten about or abandoned by the end of January, meaning only 20% are actually successful. Which isn’t very much when you think about it.

So, how can we make sure we stick to our New Year’s Resolutions for more than just a few days or weeks? There are 5 simple ways according to Dawn.

5 simple ways to stick to New Year’s Resolutions

1. Be realistic. “Eighty per cent of New Year’s Resolutions are abandoned or forgotten by the end of January, so if you’re going to bother making them, make them SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-orientated,” says Dawn. “Reviewing and evaluating them throughout the year will help you stay focused and on track.”

2. Don’t call them resolutions. “Try a different word – try calling them solutions instead of year-in-year-out resolutions, which tend to be meaningless,” advises Dawn. “Think about what you’re trying to achieve and why, instead of obsessing about how.”

3. Make a real plan. “What solutions will motivate you to change and achieve the healthier, happier, or wealthier lifestyle you desire?” asks Dawn. “Writing down the answer will increase your success rate from 10% to 25%.”

4. Don’t give up too easily. “It’s your passion and your creative spirit that will really bring about an improved sense of purpose and satisfaction,” says Dawn. “So, hire a coach or mentor who will increase your success rate from 25% to 95%. Success isn’t just about mirroring excellence, it’s also about accountability – reporting back on your progress will keep you honest and focused.”

5. Think again. “If you don’t want to make New Year’s Resolutions, make it your resolution not to make any; then you won’t feel like a failure at the end of January when you’ve not done them,” Dawn says. “Simple!”