My Secret To Success: Planning to Fail at New Year’s Resolutions

Picture of Nate Gindele
Nate Gindele
Owner, Chiropractor

As we approach the new year, many of us embark on the journey of setting New Year’s resolutions with aspirations of self-improvement and personal growth. However, according to U.S. News and World Report, 80% of us fizzle out by mid-February. So, how can we break this cycle of enthusiasm followed by disillusionment? 

The key lies in adopting a strategic approach that focuses on maintaining resolutions rather than merely making them.

Set Attainable Goals

One of the primary reasons resolutions fail is the tendency to set lofty, unattainable goals. Instead of aiming for drastic, sweeping changes, consider setting realistic and achievable objectives. This not only makes success more likely but also prevents the discouragement that often accompanies perceived failure. For instance, if your goal is to exercise more, start with a manageable commitment, such as a 20-minute walk three times a week, and gradually increase as the habit becomes ingrained.

Maintain a Consistent Schedule

Consistency is paramount when it comes to maintaining resolutions. That’s why establishing a regular schedule can be a game-changer! Whether it’s dedicating specific days to your goals or carving out a set time each day, creating a routine helps embed new habits into your daily life. For example, if you aim to improve your eating habits, use the weekends for meal planning and prep. This way, you’re starting off each week with the potential for success rather than scrambling to find something healthy after a busy workday.

Focus on One Change at a Time

Attempting to overhaul multiple aspects of your life simultaneously can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Focus on changing one habit at a time to avoid feeling bogged down. This approach allows you to channel your energy and attention into a singular objective, making the behavior more likely to stick. Once the first habit becomes ingrained (like walking three days a week), you can gradually introduce others (like meditating daily). By taking small, manageable steps, you pave the way for lasting change.

Celebrate Every Success

Celebrating small successes is a powerful motivator. Acknowledging and rewarding yourself for reaching milestones, no matter how minor, reinforces positive behavior and boosts confidence. If your resolution is to adopt a healthier diet, celebrate a week of consistently choosing nutritious options. Treat yourself to a small indulgence or engage in an activity you enjoy. These celebrations act as a reminder of your progress and fuel the momentum needed to sustain your resolution.

Plan to Fail

Yes, you read that right! Regardless of your best intentions, you WILL face failure at some point. A busy weekend may mean you fail to properly meal prep. A head cold might mean that you miss a couple of days at the gym. Failures are an inevitable part of any journey, and resolutions are no exception. The key, however, is not to let setbacks become permanent roadblocks. Instead of viewing a stumble as a reason to abandon your resolution, use it as an opportunity to reassess and readjust your approach. Reflect on what went wrong, identify potential obstacles, and devise a plan to overcome them. The ability to bounce back from setbacks is a crucial element in the journey toward achieving your goals.

Remember – resolutions are a marathon, not a sprint, and with dedication and resilience, you can turn your aspirations into lasting achievements! And we here at Gindele Family Chiropractic are here to help – especially when it comes to helping you maintain your health in 2024. Contact us today to come in and see us after the holidays and start your new year off right!

Explore Related Articles:
Health

SWFL Health: Too Much Sugar Weakens Your Immunity

October, November, and December are filled with holidays that center around sugar like Halloween candy, Thanksgiving pies, and Christmas cookies! While small doses of sugar taste good and provide a quick burst of energy, when we eat too much, it can pose a significant threat to our overall health. Did

Read More »
Health

How to Boost Your Immunity Naturally

The human immune system is a remarkable defense mechanism designed to protect our bodies from a wide range of pathogens. While genetics and lifestyle play significant roles in immune health, there are also various supplements that can bolster your immune system’s function. And spoiler alert – we offer some amazing

Read More »