Making New Year's Resolutions stick

  • Published
  • By Erin Tindell
  • Public Affairs
DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. --  It's that time of year again when people resolve to make a positive impact in their lives through New Year's Resolutions.

While losing weight and quitting smoking are often at the top of the list, some people embark on goals such as managing their finances better, being more organized or eliminating stress from their lives. However, many people fail to stick to or accomplish the New Year's Resolutions they make and give up within a few months.

According to a recent ABC News report, 40 to 45 percent of Americans make New Year's Resolutions each year, but only half of those resolutions pan out. In order to make those resolutions stick, try following some of these expert tips:

Communicate your resolutions
Those who tell others about their goals instead of keeping it privately to themselves have been found to be more likely to stick to their resolutions. So let your friends and significant others know your intentions or better yet, work on your resolutions together. A support network is key. Also, try writing your goals down in a journal or post them on a wall where you will see them every day. Try writing down your progress each day or week to keep yourself motivated.

Make gradual changes
Many people overestimate what they can do immediately and underestimate what they can do in the long run. The best course is to make small, manageable changes at first and gradually build up to your ultimate goal. For example, if you were never a runner and want to start running, don't begin by running for a full hour. You'll probably hurt yourself. Start off with a 20-minute run/walk routine until you can build your endurance up to a point where you can run without stopping for the full 20 minutes. Then gradually increase your time or distance.

Make lifetime resolutions, not New Year resolutions
Making positive life choices should be a marathon, not a 100-yard dash. Focus on making resolutions that don't require a time limit, but rather a permanent state of mind. Don't just lose those 10 lbs and then stop exercising or eating healthy -- make exercise and healthy eating a permanent habit in your life. Don't just eliminate your debt, but continue to stay out of it and manage your money well.

Do you have any unique New Year's resolutions you'd like to share? Call the Public Affairs office at 678-655-5055 or e-mail us at 94aw.pav3@dobbins.afrc.af.mil so we can share your journey with others and inspire them.

*Editor's Note: Always get the approval of a doctor before starting a new exercise or healthy eating plan*