The start of a new year is a time for reflection and setting resolutions. Whether you want to get in shape, learn a new skill, or just be more organized, there’s no shortage of goals that people aspire to achieve.
However, many people struggle to follow through on their resolutions. That’s why it’s important to set realistic goals and have a plan for how you’re going to achieve them.
Here are the top resolutions people make each year, along with some tips for actually accomplishing them!
Table of Contents
Lose Weight
Losing weight is a common New Year’s resolution, but it’s often difficult to stick to. Here are some tips for sustainable weight loss that you can stick with for not just a month, but a lifetime.
Set realistic goals. Don’t resolve to lose 50 pounds in a month. Instead, focus on realistic goals that you can accomplish, such as losing 5% of your body weight or 10 pounds.
Find activities you enjoy. Make them part of your routine. If you find a fun activity — whether it’s hiking, biking, or swimming — you’re more likely to make it part of your regular routine.
Make healthy food choices. Don’t eliminate your favorite foods, but focus on eating lean protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.
Finally, be patient! Give yourself credit for every small accomplishment along the way.
Save Money
For many, saving money is a top priority — especially after overspending on the holidays. However, like other resolutions, the enthusiasm for saving often fizzles out by March. If you’re determined to stick to your resolution this year, here’s what you can do:
First, set realistic goals. It may not be realistic to set aside hundreds of dollars every month. Instead, start with a smaller goal, such as $50 or $100.
Also, find ways to save on daily expenses. For example, you might be able to shop around and save money on your streaming services, cell phone, or car insurance. For insurance, Freeway Insurance reviews show the company does a great job helping people with an imperfect driving record find affordable coverage.
Finally, don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up. Everyone makes mistakes, and the important thing is to get back on track as soon as possible.
Improving Happiness
According to Statista, the second-most popular goal in 2022 was personal improvement or happiness. How do you sustainably improve your happiness when life can be so stressful?
One way is to keep a journal of things that make you happy, whether it’s a beautiful sunset or a funny encounter with a friend. Thinking about things you’re thankful for every day is another is to practice gratitude.
By making a conscious effort to focus on the positive, you can train your brain to be happier and stress-free.
Making Sustainable Change
Remember, big changes come from small steps. If you want your New Year’s resolutions to last, start slowly and be realistic about what you can achieve.
Don’t forget to enjoy the journey!
