Change is hard! New Year's Resolution

Is that time of the year... Again! Yay!!!!

Successful change comes only in stages. How long it takes is an individual matter.

New Year's resolution are notoriously hard to keep, especially when they are aimed at health behaviors such as losing weight, eating better, and exercising more. One potential road block: Too often we are motivated by negatives such as guilt, fear or regret. Long-lasting change is most likely when it's self-motivated and rooted in positive thinking. Also, goals are easier to reach if they are specific like, "I'll walk 30 min every day", rather than "I'll get more exercise". It also helps limiting the number of goals; otherwise it can get very overwhelming. When I get excited about a project... it's never about one project ... a sewing project for example, fixing a button, a bag... well, the sewing machine is already out so, lets make curtains!! I guess my resolution is to get more specific. One thing at the time!!

And, it's not enough to just have a goal; you need to have practical ways of reaching it. For example, if you are trying to quit sugar, have a plan for moderating the cravings. For me, a bottle of lemon water near by helps. Also some sugarless chewing gum.

And then comes relapse. Although it can be disappointing, it is common. It provides opportunities to learn what didn't work and make different plans for the next "round". You learn something about yourself each time you relapse. See it as opportunity to grow.

Change also meets resistance. All too often, this resistance is self-imposed. Give yourself permission to get past the surface 'layer block' (I can't, won't, shouldn't) to get to the root of resistance.

Get out there!!! Try new things, new ways! Perhaps one at the time?! Here is an idea, how about this New Year resolution: One small act of kindness everyday. Happy New Year!!!

#Newyearsresolutionyay