The best way to make your dreams come true is to put new goals down in black and white, envisioning a year full of positive changes. But how do you stay motivated as the weeks go on.
It takes more than just good intentions to make your dreams come true; what you need is an actual action plan that will keep you motivated and make those dreams reachable. We’ve rounded up some real-world advice to help determination be the key to your success in accomplishing what you want.
We challenge you: 12 resolutions, one per month, to become the best version of yourself by year-end.
Spell Out Your Dreams Clearly and Specifically :First things first: Your resolutions need to be tangible. It’s not good enough to say, “I want to be more active” or “I want to improve my career.
For a goal to be reached, it needs to be specific. Write what you want to do, and also put in an endpoint. Using this example, “I aim to increase my fitness by doing exercises three times every week for 30 minutes.” An easy way to follow through on resolutions while staying focused is when a resolution is specific and measurable.
Realistic and Obtainable Goals : People often set unrealistically high goals, thinking that is how success comes about. In reality, it is the small steps that work. For instance, if you aim to save money, start putting aside small amounts every week instead of trying to save a large amount at once. Realistic goals will not make you feel overwhelmed and will keep you motivated toward success, which is more tangible and achievable.
Set a Routine Which Supports Your Resolutions : Another very helpful method involves the creation of a routine that supports your resolutions.
If you want to study a new language, for example, set aside 15 minutes to study each day in your calendar. The routine will automatically fit the commitment into daily life, so there is little room for procrastination or excuses.
When actions become automatic, the effort lessens, and results start to show up more quickly. Positive habits are the secret to creating a life that is in alignment with your dreams.
Find a Companion for the Journey :Â Staying motivated is easier when one has somebody to share one’s goals with. Be it a friend, colleague, or family member, having a supportive partner may make all the difference.
By sharing both your progress and challenges, you’re committed and encouraged even when the days are bad.
Example: When jogging with a friend while your goal is to be able to run more, you will be sticking with those workouts when the temptation to skip them is huge.
Be Flexible :Â While it’s necessary to be disciplinary, it’s equally vital to allow oneself to change with circumstances. How are you going to reach your resolutions if not everything works just the right way? Go easy on yourself.
Should you falter off to the gym for a week or don’t meet some financial goal, don’t give in to discouragement. Flexibility and resiliency are just as important as willpower.
Learn from small setbacks, retreat when necessary, and renew your commitment to your ambitions.
Celebrate Small Successes :Â Every small success should be acknowledged enroute to your big dream and not necessarily when you reach your final goal. Be it completing the workout or saving the amount that you wanted, taking a moment to acknowledge progress helps sustain motivation .
After all, rewarding yourself for every achievement makes it an enjoyable journey; it leaves you accomplished with every step you undertake.
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