You’ve probably heard the statistics on setting new year’s resolutions. By mid-February, eighty percent of 2020’s resolution-ers will have abandoned their goals.
Those chances for success point out two things. First, if you have a resolution for 2020, the odds are stacked against you. Second, real and lasting change takes effort.
To create a sustainable lifestyle change, you can’t rely on luck. You have to dig your heels in and commit to the process. Even on the days you’re not excited or motivated to do what you have to do.
Here are a few ways to commit and stick to your resolutions in 2020:
1. Focus on taking small steps.
Resolving to make a change in the new year can be the jumpstart that you need to change an existing habit. However, if you try to make the change happen immediately, then you are most likely setting yourself up for disappointment and frustration. Let’s say you resolve to attend more martial arts classes. Rather than jumping from one class to saying you’re going to go every single day, focus on taking smaller steps. If you’re currently averaging one class a week, then a good first step could be trying two classes each week. Making small, gradual changes increases your chances of sticking with your resolution the whole year through.
2. Don’t take on everything at once.
There is something about the beginning of a new year that encourages us to start fresh. We want to be the best versions of ourselves, so we decide that we’re going to give up sugar, social media, Netflix binges, fast food, and snoozing the alarm clock all while working out every day, starting a meditation practice, volunteering more, and signing up for that online course you’ve had your eye on for months. Taking on all the changes at the same time is overwhelming and doesn’t exactly set you up for success. Consider all the changes that you want to make, and then choose one (maybe two) areas to focus on. Make that single resolution your priority and throw all of your energy toward sticking to that change for the next several months.
3. Tell a few close friends what you’re working on.
Another way to increase your chances of success is to share what you’re working on with a friend or two. Tell someone who you know will offer their support (and maybe some tough love when you need it). When you share your resolution, don’t just share what you’re working on. Also, give your friend some background information on the why behind this change. Why is it important to you? Making your intentions public not only increases accountability, but it also can help with your motivation to stay committed to your goals.
To learn more about how to get started on your personal 2020 martial arts goals and resolutions, contact us at Karate Families in Tarzana today.
