Could
we stare the American Dream to “have it all” in the face and say “not so fast?”
Do we shoot for working on
everything and then wind up with nothing? Instead of a dozen good intentions, focus
on one or two resolutions.
Think
about broad life goal areas (spiritual, relationship, career, community
service, financial, social, personal, and health). What goal areas are your
highest priority? Create one or two
resolutions from these. Stop at only one or two so you can remember them, focus
on them, and get them done. Stop repeating the same well-intentioned
resolutions year after year.
Carefully design your resolutions: Make them specific,
measurable, and doable. If I resolve to lose weight or spend more time on
personal development, I have to be clear about how it will happen. Better resolutions might be: I will lose fifteen pounds by May 1st, and I
will take two personal retreats this year. Clear goals are easier to track,
measure, and achieve.
Finally,
make resolutions that excite you! If
you aren’t thrilled to accomplish these resolutions, what’s the point? If you
merely pick resolutions from your “should do” list or use items that society’s
expectations have foisted onto you, how far will you get? Where is your
passion? Don’t you feel more fulfilled when you spend time working on what you
really love?
If
a resolution isn’t intrinsically motivating, consider creating an exciting
reward for yourself for achieving it. Withhold the treat until you achieve your
resolution. Put time and thought into your reward so it is truly special for
you, not something you already periodically enjoy. Make the resolution, the
reward, or both a passion for you.
If
New Year’s resolutions are simple—limited to one or two, clearly defined, and
personally exciting, we have a better shot at making them finally happen. When
we get them done, we can pick something new for next year!
