How to Make Your New Years Resolutions More Achievable

Every year around this time, people come up with one or more resolutions to better themselves in the next 365 1/4 days. Many resolutions are automatically impossible, but still people set these high goals with the hopes like they were reaching for the stars. However, while it's all right in the long term to set these high goals, resolutions are easily completed if people think more logically instead of distantly. Below are a few standard resolutions people set for themselves every year, where they tend to go wrong and how to make their initial idea more reachable.

Weight Loss

Losing weight is perhaps the most selected resolution and probably the one most likely failed in the same breath. It's not that losing weight is an unreachable goal, however, the main problem lies in how much weight people generally tend to set their sights on within the next year. Weight loss on its own is fine, however, if you intend to lose a drastic amount because you're extremely overweight, always consult a doctor first. They can help you achieve your long term goal, but they will tell you the same thing I'm going to say. It's about baby steps. Short term goals are more achievable than just setting your sights on the ultimate goal. Sure, when you make your resolution it sounds a lot let impressive (to some) to state, "I'm going to lose at least ten pounds this year" instead of "I'm going to drop 100 pounds."

Also, while it's incredible that you want to lose this weight, you need to accept the fact that this weight loss dream is actually a combination resolution. In order to lose weight you have to get into a habit of exercising regularly, eating much better or a mixture of both. It isn't just weight loss. Remember that in truth it's a lifestyle change.
Don't get frustrated that your short term goal isn't achieved instantly, either. You, along with everyone else in the world, is bound to have setbacks, but that doesn't mean to abandon this resolution, as many do the first time the scale reads higher for them. Take this time to relax, focus and see what you changed this period between weigh ins and figure out who the little culprit was and make sure to omit that from your next week of weight loss. If it doesn't work again, still don't fret. We can lose fat and gain muscle- especially if you're exercising regularly. It doesn't mean you'll look as big as normal, no. You'll look thinner and more fit.

I found the easiest way to go around with a resolution without stating an exact number was to say "I plan on losing weight this year." Whenever somebody asked how much I would reply with, "We'll see." It was far easier to accomplish losing weight when I never even set a number to begin with. When I lost 5 pounds I already felt accomplished and ready to see how much more I would lose. In fact, the total for 2006 is just around 30 pounds lost. Not bad for just stating a generic resolution. Besides, at the end of the year you'll feel more accomplished too. If you set your sights on 50 and only lost 30 like me, then you'd feel miserable. However, 30 with no original goal looks wonderful! Just be sure you remind yourself you can do it.

Get A Better/High Paying Job

Rome wasn't built in a day, remember that. In fact, it burnt a lot faster than it was burnt. This is an interesting theory I take to heart when looking for a job. You can't expect to immediately be earning the wages of a CEO when you apply for a job, so don't even fret that. Look for something even 50 cents above your current pay that does have room for advancement. If you expect high things right away you will burn fast just like Rome. It may seem silly, but it has kept me from aiming too high when applying for jobs.

In my area, it seems people who work in factories are lucky if they break 15,000 income a year. It is very dismal and considered still within the poverty levels. This is rather depressing to picture, however, a good reason for many of them to set their sights on finding a career that will give more security along with that sense of pride that every person deserves when working. Although it's not easy, sometimes in order to be able to make ends meet every month and not go into debt, you have to look beyond your own area. Many don't want to do this because it could mean moving or even a very long commute to work each day. With gas prices as they are, many would be forced to move in order to get a better job.

Don't expect immediately to get six digits income. In fact, if you get above 40,000 initially then you're lucky. But don't feel horrible if your start out is only 20-30 a year. If it's better than what you're currently getting now, then it's already advancement.

But do take into consideration that you have to prove your worth. Don't go in being all know-it-all. There's a difference between confidence and arrogance. Confidence can land you a job and arrogance can guarantee you'll never get a position within their company.

So remember, when setting this goal don't think big bucks. Think 'better than I'm getting now' and you're already on your way to reaching a long term goal of higher.

Exercise Regularly

This one is hard. Most people I've heard use this one state, "I'm going to start going to the gym four days a week.." or set up a standard 'how often I can get to a gym' resolution to assure they start exercising regularly. However, this one can be a big pain to stick to. Gym memberships can be pretty hefty in price per month and it is all possible that you can't afford it.

In order to exercise regularly you don't need a gym or fancy machinery to do it for you. Sure, they help out, but if you're determined - you can do it all at home. Exercise merely is being active. That's it. If you decide to walk to the post office every day instead of drive - you're exercising. Many people do forget (as impossible as it seems) that walking IS an excellent source of exercise that almost anybody can do any time of year.

If you absolutely can't walk to any of these places in a reasonable amount of time then even going outside for a short 10 minute walk is doable. You can buy small weights for ankles and wrists in most any department store, these even assist with weight training when walking.

However, if you ARE able to afford a gym, make sure you do make your membership worth it. Don't skip out on a session because you don't feel like going. If you're truly ill or too pressed for time, that's understandable, but never skip because of laziness. If you skip six days of your goal then you're really not doing anything to keep your resolution.

Also, if you're a parent, make sure you are a good example for your children. You don't want to have them suffer from childhood obesity and later on down the lines adulthood obesity. Teach them now that a good exercise regime is just as important as brushing their teeth daily. It's important to be healthy and around for a longer time. Exercise, such as walking or even playing outside is a great family exercise as well. Never rule it out. Quality time with the family is something to be cherished.

While I didn't touch base with other resolutions, the three I did mention can be easily accomplished if you just take a different look at what the resolution is. Remember to be reasonable in your goals, be assertive and never take no or you can't for an answer.