Have you embarked on a New Year’s Resolution in 2020?
You’re not alone.
45% of Americans are likely to make a resolution this year and half of those resolutions are focused on self-improvement.
The biggest problem with New Year’s Resolutions is that the vast majority of people never achieve them. Statistics show that 1 out of 4 people will drop out after just one week of trying.
So, what’s the problem?
In general, we talk more than we act. Yes, I said it. We overcommit and underperform.
I’ve always loved this quote (the author is unknown): “People with good intentions make promises. But people with good character keep them.”
“People with good intentions make promises. But people with good character keep them.” - Unknown Click To TweetSo, how do we become a keeper of promises?
It’s simple, do the opposite. We need to undercommit and overperform!
Follow these three simple rules:
- Set realistic goals. Be brutally honest about the effort it will take. Don’t be afraid to set easier goals in the beginning, especially if you are going to be making a big change.
- Fully commit. Once those goals are in place, fully commit to achieving those goals. Make a promise to yourself that you intend to keep.
- Just do it. Take daily action to meet your goal.
It sounds easy but let’s be honest, there’s a limit to effort and willpower.
Shear determination, effort, and willpower will only get you so far.
To make a real change to your lifestyle, you need to develop habits and patterns. You need to create daily activities and routines that make it easy for you to meet your goals.
The other thing to consider is, let’s be honest, you are going to fail.
You’re going to slip up. You’re going to cheat. You’re going to go back to your old habits. This is where most people give up.
The simple trick to not giving up is to remember Step 3 above, just do it.
If you fail one day or even one week, don’t worry or beat yourself up. Start fresh the next day and just keep going. Don’t wait another year before you start again.
Remember the promise you made to yourself.
And, remember these words from the great Winston Churchill, “Never, ever ever ever ever give up.”
“Never, ever ever ever ever give up.” - Winston Churchill Click To TweetThis is your year. Let me know how I can help you achieve your goals.
Engage with me on Twitter and let me know what changes you are making this year.
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If one of your resolutions is to read more, might I suggest my bestselling book, “I Have the Watch” where I share my experiences in leading people over the last 30 years?
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