With every new year, several resolutions are made with the best intentions of success. Why then do most of them fail within a few weeks or months? Are we unrealistic of the commitment and how much effort will be required? Each of us want a better life and want change in the areas we feel need to be improved. I feel the most important way to experience success is to mentally be prepared for a change. What does that take?
1. Be realistic that the goals you set will not be achieved overnight. We develop habits and lifestyles over a period of time and change can take just as long.
2. Writing them down on paper has been very successful. You not only have them in your mind but also on a piece of paper that you can read every day.
3. Tell others about your aspirations so that they can encourage and hold you accountable.
4. Obtain the tools and resources you need to be successful. If it is to lose weight, join a gym, develop an exercise and eating plan. Whatever your goal, do your research.
5. Hold yourself accountable but also allow yourself grace. Many times, we give up after the first failure. When (not if) failure happens, accept it and get back on track.
6. Connect to your inner source. For me, prayer along with personal effort are the keys to success.
7. Reward yourself when you see change. If eating right and exercise is the goal, buy yourself new clothes when you see a weight loss.
8. Be optimistic and speak words of affirmation.
9. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
The most important part of any change is to love and accept yourself. We all have improvements that need to be made. However, we must realize that we are unique and every person has a different journey. The serenity prayer says it best: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. Remember each morning when you look into a mirror, that is the person that determines success and failure. Prayers for success in 2020 and may all your goals be achieved.
“I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13
