Don’t let 2022 be another year that you let your new year’s resolutions slip away. Take out an old-fashioned pen and paper, sit down, and take note of these tips to set you up for success and to keep you on track throughout this brand new year. Many people start the year off with the good intention to stick to a new year’s resolution, but within weeks begin to taper off or peter out entirely. This is likely because they take on too much at once and become overwhelmed and also because their brain health hasn’t been prioritized to maintain motivation from a neurochemical perspective. Dr. Teralyn Sell, Psychotherapist, and Brain Health Expert share her top tips on how to stick to your new year’s resolutions once and for all this year.
How to Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions, According to a Psychotherapist
1) Start small
Focus on one small goal and build from there. For instance, if you want to improve your movement, pick a time of day that you are less likely to avoid doing it. Also, if you are already moving, start by doing something more than you did before which might be a micro goal instead of a huge goal that will likely lead to a big letdown.
2) Achievable goals
Incorporate a goal of learning something new. For instance, if you have a goal to lose weight. Instead of focusing on the scale, focus on learning how to cook healthier or learning how to meal prep. By learning something new you are also encouraging the health of your brain so it’s a win, win!
3) Make time for what you love
Include something you love to do. If you really love swimming, make time for it. Often we forget about the things that we love to do so they don’t get included in our goals. Also, don’t forget about including hobbies in your plan. Perhaps you’ve gotten away from hobbies you once enjoyed, those are just as important as physical activities for the health of your brain.
4) Be prepared
If you have a goal of physical activity or cooking, make sure you have prepared yourself with the proper equipment to do it. The act of preparation and planning allows your brain to anticipate the activity, creating those new neural pathways for success.
