4 Ways To Stick To New Years Resolutions

The start of a new year is always filled with an overwhelming sense of inspiration and motivation. We all start January with the best intentions, by mid-February most of us have lost our spark. So if you want to know how you can hold onto that motivation long into the year, here are 4 ways to stick to your New Year’s resolutions.

1. Make it a SMART resolution

A smart resolution means specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely. A resolution would be saying “I want to be a better runner” but a smart resolution would be saying “I want to run 10kms at a 5:35 pace by July 1”. Setting resolutions against the smart criteria will help you to create the action plan and strategy you need to actually achieve it.

2. Find an accountability buddy

Telling a close friend or family member about your resolutions is one of the easiest ways to stay accountable. You’re far more likely to stick to a goal or resolution if there’s someone there to hold you accountable - especially on the days you might not be feeling very motivated. Pick someone who you wouldn’t want to let down. Better yet? Why not try setting a fitness resolution with your buddy and smash it together.

3. Track your progress

Remember that success is the sum of small wins repeated, so track/record your progress along the way. Instant gratification culture has taught many people to overlook long term goals, but remember that progress is success. Track exercise based resolutions with apps like Strava, Myzone, FitBit or your Apple Watch and nutrition based resolutions with apps like My Fitness Pal or meal services like My Muscle Chef.

4. Celebrate your success

Have a reward in mind that you can treat yourself with once you’ve achieved your goal. It could be a new fitness tracker, an outfit you’ve had your eye on for a while or even a holiday! Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that will help you stay accountable. Visualizing this reward will help you get out of bed when you want to hit snooze, will help you cook a healthy dinner even when you’re tired and want take-away and most importantly, will help you cross the finish line.