Mega Doctor News
By University of New Hampshire
Newswise – DURHAM, N.H. – New Year’s eve is in the rearview mirror but those resolutions are front and center and if you’re already struggling to keep them that is perfectly normal. Katie Godshall, a clinical assistant professor in the College of Health and Human Services at the University of New Hampshire and an expert in the field of mental health, reminds that change can be hard and before throwing in the towel it’s important to remember why those resolutions were important in the first place.
“Don’t get overwhelmed with feelings of guilt and disappointment if this resolution isn’t working for you,” said Godshall. “The most important thing is to be kind to yourself. Chances are your resolutions were focused on healthier choices for the new year so rather than piling on the self-doubt and other bad feelings, take a moment to look at why your resolutions may not be working.”
According to a study by the Pew Research Center, less than a month into the new year, only a little over half of people who made resolutions on New Year’s Eve have kept them. Many have abandoned their pledges in less than a week, or before Quitter’s Day which is the second Friday in January.
Resolutions usually start out with a lot of motivation and drive but over time the momentum can slow causing people to quit all together. Before giving up, Godshall recommends asking yourself three key words—what, how and why.
“Make sure you’re being realistic,” said Godshall. “Ask yourself what are you trying to accomplish? How are you trying to get it done? Why is it important? And, make sure you’re not tackling too much too soon. Be honest with yourself and if it’s not working for you, it’s perfectly fine to step back, reassess and adjust—otherwise you’re doing yourself a disservice and may be just as unhappy sticking with the resolution as you would be if you quit.”
Godshall says reframe your view. Don’t think of it as quitting but resetting your goals. She even goes as far as suggesting picking another time of year that may better fit your goals.
“We’re just coming off the holidays, filled with indulgence and chaotic schedules, so some people may already be starting off on a bad foot,” said Godshall. “Maybe use this time to prepare and set yourself up for success. For example, research good running sneakers and do some stretching and opt to start a running routine in the spring, when the weather is nicer.”
| Here are some other tips for reassessing resolutions: |
| Unrealistic expectations |
| Don’t be afraid to examine and reset goals. Is the resolution achievable or is it too ambitious? Is it flexible enough to fit into your daily schedule? |
| Be kind to yourself |
| Even if you feel guilty or unmotivated, don’t feel you’ve failed. Rethinking goals is still moving forward—it’s not giving up, it’s adjusting. |
| It’s all about being a better you |
| This resolution was supposed to help you so don’t let it bring you down. Don’t feel the need to strive for perfection. Focus on what works best for you. |
| Buddy system |
| Find a partner in resolution. Ask a friend, family member or co-worker to join you. Having someone to collaborate with can give external reliance and accountability. Maybe meet them at the gym or go for a walk at work during lunchtime. |
| Celebrate success |
| If you reimagine your resolutions and move forward, make sure to celebrate small milestones, even if the road is bumpy. Focus on the progress and enjoy the journey. |
