The new year is here, which means millions of Americans are making their yearly resolutions. Making resolutions each year is easy, but sticking to them can be stressful. You’re not alone if you feel like your resolution fails a few months into the year. Making and keeping resolutions doesn’t have to feel near impossible, especially if you use the SMART goals strategy.
- Specific. This resolution is clear and concrete. It identifies what you want to accomplish and how you are going to accomplish it. For example, instead of “lose 5 pounds,” you would reframe your resolution to be “lose 5 pounds in four weeks by exercising five times a week and cutting gout processed foods.”
- Measurable. Track your progress. If you can see your progress, you’re more likely to continue working towards your end goal.
- Attainable. You should be able to accomplish your end goal. Setting your bar high while making your resolution to start the year off strong can be tempting, but choosing goals that are unattainable will only create defeat.
- Relevant. Create a resolution that you care about and want to do. If it’s something you care about, you’re more likely to work on it and be successful. It should relate to your daily life in some way.
- Time-bound. Set a deadline for your goal in order to stay on track and measure your progress. If you have a deadline, you are also able to set smaller goals along the way that will make achieving your end goal easier.
A SMART resolution is a resolution that has a greater likelihood of being accomplished. Set yourself up for success this year.
