Are your new year’s resolutions running out of steam? Did you start off optimistic that this year you would do it, but now those resolutions are an embarrassment? You may want to lose weight or to give up smoking, to be prettier or nicer, to learn a new language or forget old habits. The big problem, of course, is not making the resolutions but in keeping them. But don’t give up. Even though it’s no longer new year’s day, think about the energy and determination you had at that time to succeed, to get yourself sorted.
So how can you increase your chance of sticking to your resolutions? Remember the carrot-and-stick of traditional thinking? It still has relevance today. Think about the past: what has motivated you to do things you didn’t want to do or that were difficult? These don’t have to be major goals, just tasks that you managed to complete in spite of yourself. Did you decide to give yourself a reward when you completed the task? Did you think about the satisfaction you would feel when you achieved your goal? If these or similar approaches got you going, you are motivated by the carrot. If, however, you kept reminding yourself of the disapproval you would experience if you didn’t complete your task, or if you decided to deny yourself something until you completed your goal, you are motivated by the stick.
Is it sometimes the carrot and sometimes the stick? Can you see a pattern to this? Are work goals usually motivated by the stick, and home goals by the carrot? Do you ever use both at the same time?
Whatever pattern emerges, apply this to your new year’s resolutions. Add the carrot and/or stick to help you achieve what you want.
Also remember that there may be professionals who can help you. Hypnotherapists, for example, can help people who want to lose weight or give up smoking. Life Coaches are an excellent resource if you feel you are stuck in a rut, playing and replaying old behaviour that doesn’t work. To find a suitable professional ask around, visit one of the local natural health centres, check out our therapist listing, or check out Yellow Pages. Don’t be frightened of phoning several therapists to find the one you feel is best for you. Most therapists are quite happy to talk to prospective clients who are unsure about making an appointment, (and if they're not don't make an appointment!)
If you don't fancy seeing a therapist, self-hypnosis CDs can be very helpful too. There's a huge range to help you with all sorts of new year's resolutions.
