New Year's is often seen as a cultural milestone, as a way of starting fresh. With each new year, social media floods with the latest New Years Resolution; with resolutions to "lose this…" or "stop this…". A common denominator I always make note of when it comes to New Year's resolutions; often times people seek to add something to their life instead of improving what is always there.
Realistically speaking, as reported by Time Magazine, only 8% of people who make resolutions actually stick to them throughout the year.
The reasons include the obvious, unrealistic goals. My solution? Here are some ways to improve your resolution for 2014.
LOOK AT THE POSITIVES
Looking back on the past year, what are something you've been great at? Instead of adding something that isn't already an active part of your life, why not continue to build on what you do have? If you're already great at CrossFit, why not resolve to compete this year? If you are great at making money, why not embark upon a small entrepreneurial endeavor?
Note that success is something that is built from your perception and response to failing. John C. Maxwell, author of Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success adds that even the most successful entrepeneurs fail, on average 3.8 times before succeeding.
A friend of mine recently hit a heard spot in his life. I'd be lying to all my readers if I didn't say this is a common occurrence within my own life, and a great part of why I am so relatable. I use my experiences to relate to people, with hopes of adding some insight and value to what they are going through. While in the middle of a conversation, I suggested refocusing himself a little. Intrigued, he asked me "how does one go about refocusing?"
My reply? Actually, that's a really good question. Usually when I need to recenter or "refocus" myself, I start with what I know best; what makes me happy. For me the gym is not a New Year's resolution, but an outlet. It helps me to focus more on myself and to sort out the world around me. Usually when I'm out of sorts, it's because I've been to busy with life to take the time and listen to/pay attention to myself. When I begin to refocus myself, I prioritize me, and then work from there. Like a laundry stack. I put myself at the top and work my way through the pile (life). It's mental more than anything. But the gym is a great way for me to "see" the mental processing that it takes to work through challenges.
Not everyone loves the gym, but many people can remember, vividly or with encouragement, what it is that makes them most happy. Take a look at this, take the time for yourself, and refocus; consider what it is that makes you happy and build your New Year's goal off this.
WATCH ME
People often times wonder, where does motivation begin? For me, I can't say it's something that is always there, but I seek out things to keep me active and constantly motivated. A great tool I use, personally; the phrase "WATCH ME." I always challenge myself constantly. At the end of the day, anything you are looking to achieve, gain or improve is for no one's benefit but your own. So don't go marking your gains against anyone but your own. This was your goal, your resolution, and at the end of the day you're the only one who truly can answer whether you achieved the goal, or worse, cheated along the way. Be honest with yourself, but remember that the only person you are proving, is you.
So if at first you don't succeed…. TRY & TRY AGAIN
Wishing y'all a safe, healthy and HAPPY New Year!
New Year's Resolution Stats:
http://ideas.time.com/2013/12/30/new-years-resolutions-are-bad-for-you/
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