Instead of a list of “resolutions,” here is a 5-step plan you can apply to what you really want to accomplish in 2021:
- Choose an Action, Not a Goal
Don’t set a goal to “lose weight.” Instead, create a list of actions you can take, like “Only one dessert item per week” or “Take a short walk every day.” Or from a business building perspective - instead of setting a goal to make more money, ask yourself “what actions need to be taken to ensure that I double my profits in the upcoming year?”.
- Create a Habit Loop
We know that whatever becomes a habit, sticks. (Just try breaking an old one and you’ll see what I mean!) Habits are formed by setting up “cues'' that trigger the habit, and “rewards” which anchor it. The cue can be anything from a certain time of day to an action (like opening the refrigerator). The reward Is something you enjoy that doesn’t negate the original habit (for instance, don’t reward your daily walk with a donut!)
- Look Out for Obstacles
Any substantial action plan will run into challenges. Anticipating those possible difficulties in advance can be the difference between success and failure. For example, knowing that certain restaurants are more difficult on your diet than other ones and planning accordingly.
- Adopt a Progress Not Perfection Attitude
Getting off track is easy and doesn’t mean you’ve failed. The important thing is that you don’t use a setback as an excuse to give up entirely. (As in, “I ate 1 cookie, so I might as well finish the box.”) Take it in stride, be gentle with yourself, and get back up on the horse.
- One Thing at a Time
It’s tempting at the beginning of the year to want to tackle all of the things you want to change and accomplish. But studies have shown that it’s better to focus on one goal at a time. The best plan is to start with what is called a “keystone habit” – that is, a central habit that can help you create a number of other routines once it’s in place.
