Denton County Living Well Magazine January/February 2020 | Page 29

Choose one or perhaps two of the
resolutions on your list that you feel
most committed to. Then choose one
or two you feel confident you can do
with ease. These last couple can be
used as positive reinforcement for
the more challenging first choices.
Next, make a clear plan for adhering
to your resolutions. Put each
resolution in writing and write down
the steps to achieve them. Let’s say
your resolution requires a routine
or schedule such as an exercise
routine, a new diet, or steps toward
completing your education. Create
a goal chart, a detailed plan, and
a checklist to track your progress.
Also, post notes in strategic places
such as the refrigerator, bathroom
mirror, or steering wheel as reminders
of your resolutions with tips on
how to overcome temptation.
Make sure your family understands
the importance of your resolutions.
Family support and their positive
reinforcement can be most helpful.
If your resolution is something your
family has been nagging you about,
ask for their encouragement. But
explain that pressure and pestering,
particularly during setbacks, could
undermine your resolve. Determine
how each family member can help
you to achieve your goal perhaps
by taking on additional household
chores or through affirmations
of your continued success.
Adjust your environment
to enable
success
Adjust your environment to enable
success. If eating healthier is your
goal, don’t fill the cupboards
with junk food for other family
members. Find healthy snacks
they’re willing to substitute. If
you’re trying to quit smoking, avoid
people, places, and things that
remind or tempt you, at least until
you have it well under control.
Don’t go it alone. If you have a
friend with a similar resolution, make
a pact. Work together to create
a plan, and then make a point to
check in with each other regularly for
encouragement, praise, and support.
If you resolve to get more exercise, do
it together. Having a commitment and
someone to accompany you will go
a long way in helping you succeed.
Finally, reward yourself, not just
once you’ve achieved your goal,
but periodically for your success
so far. Small, periodic rewards
can be motivation enough to
keep you strong when you’re
ready to throw in the towel.
Remember, whatever New
Year resolutions you choose,
success awaits you if you resolve
never to give up trying.
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer. She also writes content, blog posts, and more for businesses
in a variety of industries and is an expert in on-page SEO. Find her at www.kimberlyblaker.com.
DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020
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