As we continue through the third month of the new year, 2020 is fading into history. Many of us have made New Year’s resolutions, in which we vow to improve ourselves by getting in shape, building self confidence and feeling more attractive, or carrying ourselves with more poise. All of these are fine, even noble aspirations. Yet, it seems we’re better at making resolutions than keeping them. In fact, only 8 percent of Americans achieve their New Year’s goals, according to Forbes.
One reason for this less-than-stellar track record is our lack of a solid game plan to meet out goals. Failing to fill in the details can doom even modest objectives to failure. In this article, we’ll discuss how to set achievable targets that can pave the way for lasting self-improvement. Though it’s now March, it’s never too late to get started on your resolutions! Think of this as your guide to success in 2021.
Get Fit
Start by defining the fitness goals you wish to achieve in 2021. For example, would you like to be able to do 50 push-ups at once? Run a mile without breaking a sweat? Work in your garden with no knee or back pain? List your objectives, then find a way to achieve them. For example, you could join a gym and work with a personal trainer.
Or you can invest in a treadmill and look for workout tips on YouTube. The key is to have a plan which focuses your efforts over the next year. Give yourself the time to work up to your fitness goals and you’ll start seeing progress in no time!
Try a New Wardrobe
Exercise is a great way to feel more confident in our bodies. But the way we present ourselves to the world is just as important as slimming down or bulking up. Here are some grooming and wardrobe tips that can help:
- Start 2021 with a hydration treatment at the spa. Then keep your complexion glowing throughout the year by using a good moisturizer, avoiding harsh cosmetics, and getting enough sleep.
- Dress for success, whether it’s for work, social events, or both. To get the right look, imagine a time when your attire made you feel empowered and energetic. Then ask yourself what aspects of your wardrobe contributed to that feeling and recreate those elements in every outfit you wear.
- Focus on what you find attractive, not on what works for your friends, co-workers, or fashion models. Authenticity is essential to looking your best in all areas of life, as pointed out by life coach Julia Jornsay-Silverberg in an article for LinkedIn. Make it a resolution to find looks that fit your personality!
Improve Your Sense of Self
A fit body and empowering appearance are great assets to have. But neither will do you much good unless you devote some of your energies to improving yourself from the inside out. So here are tips for cultivating greater self-acceptance, self-confidence, and self-mastery:
- Step outside your comfort zone by trying a new skill or asking yourself some challenging questions. For example, if you see yourself as a horrible cook, then try creating a gourmet dish from scratch, just to test your assumptions and your abilities. Or start by finding easy recipes and building your cooking skills each week.
- Spend some time asking yourself important questions, look at yourself in the mirror and say, “So, are you as happy as you would like to be? Or are you letting something hold you back?” Going out on a limb can help you to discover both strengths and opportunities for improvement you never knew existed.
- Change the script when you engage in negative self-talk. For example, if you find yourself thinking that you’re selfish for wanting a day off, change the thought to, “I have as much right to happiness as anyone. I am worthy of rest.”
Conquer Addiction by Cultivating Wellbeing
Recovering from substance addiction is essential for living up to your potential. But resolving to kick the habit is never enough by itself. You need to fill the void once occupied by drugs or alcohol. Possible ways to do so include:
- Use meditation, progressive relaxation, or prayer to calm and focus your mind.
- Find a way to express your creativity. You might draw, paint, play an instrument, or try out for a role in a community theater. Find hobbies and people that fill your time in a healthy, pleasurable way.
- Support your mental and physical health by combining good nutrition with the exercise tips discussed earlier. Practice self-care, spend time with family and friends, and try out therapy if you have unresolved trauma. A sound body is essential for a sound mind, and vice-versa.
Start a Business
For many people, 2020 was the year that caused them to see everything in a different light, from their personal relationships to their typical habits to their jobs. And if you’ve found yourself dragging feet as you get ready for work each day, it may be time to recalibrate your professional goals. Instead of working for someone else, why not start your own business?
You don’t have to dive into entrepreneurship full-time right away – starting out with a side hustle is a great way to get your feet wet. Is there a craft or baked good you have a passion for? This might be the nudge you need to begin the steps of building a business! As long as you treat yourself like a professional, customers will see the value in what you offer!
But even if you’re just getting started with a side gig, establishing your business as an LLC is crucial. To save time and money while getting this done, consider filing with an online formation service.
Keeping up with Resolutions
2021 is continuing on, with all the potential a new year brings. Use the tips in this post to make the most of this year and beyond. You’ll give yourself a well-deserved “Congratulations!” when you look back and see how you turned your 2021 resolutions into reality this year.
Need help figuring out a wellness plan that works for you? Find a health coach near you.
