5 Tips To Help You Keep Your New Years Resolutions

Happy New Year babe! I'm sure you've made some resolutions for 2017 (just like all the years before, ahem) and if you're anything like the vast majority of the population I'm sure that some (or all) of them have fallen by the way side. So how do we set a list of goals for a year that holds events we cannot possibly foresee? Below are some tips to help keep your goals in line and be buzzing with a sense of achievement.

1. Be Specific

Avoid vague goals like 'get fit, have a better work/life balance, be healthier, etc, etc'. Instead opt for specific, measurable goals such as 'attend 3 fitness classes per week, meditate daily for 10 minutes, drink 8 glasses of water per day'. 

2. Set Realistic Goals

Is it realistic to expect you will travel to 12 different countries in a year? Perhaps if you live in Europe (and you're loaded!), but it may not be as easy from your location or with other financial commitments you currently have. Similarly, with your health and fitness goals, set a realistic figure or your goal will seem unattainable and you will give up when it becomes apparent that you are not going to be able to achieve it. Realistic goals are easier to achieve and will keep you interested.

3. Group Goals Into Bite Size Chunks

In the same way realistic goals keep you interested, if you can keep the goals small and group them together you'll feel the sense of achievement which develops into inspiration and motivation to keep going. Split goals into short, medium and long term goals and connect them if possible. For example, if your goal is to get back into regular exercise, considering starting with an initial short-term goal of exercising at least twice a week. This can then lead to your medium term goal of going at least four times a week and then a long term goal is to have a solid timetable that you can stick to and have stuck to for the rest of the year.

4. Make Your Goals Visible

Now that you've got your list of goals it's time to display them in a prominent place. Think whiteboards, chalk boards or for something prettier, a frame and a nice piece of paper are great ways to display them. When you can see your list, it's tangible and much easier to keep front of mind. Make the goals public if you have to. Get your friends on board. Create a Facebook photo album and add a photo for each time you achieve a goal. You can also list them in the description and tick them off as they are completed.

5. Planning Is Key

Forward planning really is a key factor in achieving your goals. Getting into a regular habit of making time on Sunday (or whatever day works best for you) to plan the week ahead sets you up for success. Whilst set backs and unforeseen events are inevitable, having a plan in place (and being flexible) will help you to jump back into it as soon as you are able.

Ultimately, your goals need to be specific, measurable, attainable and realistic. Put these tips to use and you will be ticking off your goals in no time!

What goals have you got planned for this year?? Be sure to share them with us in the comment section below. 

Love Lots

The Pure Dash Team

xo