If sticking to New Year’s resolutions is your problem, you’re in good company. Four out of five people break them by March, according to the time management firm, Franklin Covey. Take heart, though, if you follow these helpful tips, your resolutions will become a reality.

Life is about choices. Make choices, set goals and help yourself accomplish them. These tips will show you how:

    • Make realistic, attainable resolutions. Choose one goal, then break it down into smaller, more manageable bits. For example, if you want to save R5000, start by saving R50 per month, which is less intimidating. Every time you save some money, praise yourself.
    • Make sure each goal includes clear measurements and specific deadlines. For example, if you want to lose weight, write down how much weight you want to lose and when you want to lose it by.
    • Make resolutions fun, rather than seeing them as punishments. If your goal is to lose weight, think of it as a chance to adopt a healthier lifestyle, not as a period of denial.
    • Write down your goals in a prominent place in your home or office and review them daily, weekly and monthly. By tracking your progress, you will stay more committed to achieving them.
    • Stay positive so you’ll have more energy and enthusiasm to pursue your goals. For example, praise yourself for losing five kilograms, but don’t punish yourself for gaining one back.
    • Team up with a friend or loved one so you’ll be accountable to one another, or tell the people you live or work with about your goal. When friends, family and co-workers know what you are working toward, they will be less likely to present you with temptations. They may also notice or ask about your progress and encourage you. You’re also more likely to remain committed to your goal if you have to admit failure publicly.

Only you can make the commitment to change your life. Do you want to be exactly where you are now this time next year or do you want to be closer to your goal, even if it’s only a small step closer? It’s up to you!

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EAP) is available 24 hours if you want to discuss your new year’s resolutions.