How "Not to Fail" This New Year

Every year, after we get over the new year hangover, whether it's alcohol or just too much food or a lack of sleep, we make a brave commitment to improve ourselves. A lot of the time that means losing weight!

While some of us succeed, many of us don't and others may succeed for the short term. Here's a few tips to help boost your chances.

Don't Be Vague - Make a Specific Goal

Every year, millions of people resolve to "lose weight" or "get in shape" during the next year. Instead of selecting such a vague goal, focus on something more concrete that you can realistically set your sights on, such as losing X kgs or fitting into a certain item of clothing.

Don't Be Unrealistic

It's good to have lofty goals but it can also create a mental block when it all seems too overwhelming. Set a realistic goal to start. Once you achieve that you can "take a win" and then look at setting a new goal if you wish.

Avoid Repeating Past Failures

Another strategy for keeping your New Year's Resolution is to not make the exact same resolution year after year. If people think they can do it they probably can, but if they've already tried and failed, their self-belief will be low.

If you do choose to reach for the same goals you've tried for in the past, spend some time evaluating your previous results. Which strategies were the most effective? Which were the least effective? What has prevented you from keeping your resolution in past years? By changing your approach, you will be more likely to see real results this year.

Keep Renewing Your Motivation

During the first days of a New Year's Resolution, you will probably feel confident and highly motivated to reach your goal. Because you haven't really faced any discomfort or temptation associated with changing your behavior, making this change might seem all too easy.

After dealing with the some of the harder realities of your goal, there is usually some degree of weakening of will. When you face such moments, remind yourself of exactly why you are doing this. What do you have to gain by achieving your goal? Find sources of inspiration that will keep you going when times get tough.

Don't Let Small Stumbles Bring You Down

Encountering a setback is one of the most common reasons why people give up on their New Year's Resolutions. If you suddenly relapse into a bad habit, don't view it as a failure. The path toward your goal is not a straight one, and there are always going to be challenges. Instead, view relapses as learning opportunities.

If you are keeping a resolution journal, write down important information about when the relapse occurred and what might have triggered it. By understanding the challenges you face, you will be better prepared to deal with them in the future.

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