New Year Resolutions Are Wishful Promises That Nobody Keeps… Unless You Use This Tried and Tested Technique
Spoiler: your approach makes all the difference.
Cover photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash.
Every year, many people make New Year’s resolutions, hoping to start the year fresh and achieve their goals. Yet, despite the enthusiasm, most resolutions fade away as the year progresses. The statistics are stark: a significant percentage of people abandon their resolutions by February, and even fewer see them through to the end of the year.
So, what’s the problem? Why do so many well-intentioned plans fail, and how can you break the cycle and make meaningful progress? The answer lies not in the resolutions themselves but in how you approach achieving them. Here’s why traditional resolutions often fall short and a tried and tested technique to help you turn those promises into tangible accomplishments.
The Pitfalls of Traditional Resolutions
1. They’re Often Too Vague
The main reason resolutions often fail is their inherent vagueness. Statements like “I plan to grow my business” lack the necessary specificity and actionable steps. This lack of a clear plan makes it easy to lose motivation or get sidetracked.
What to do instead
Break your resolution into specific, actionable goals. Instead of saying, “I want to get fit”, set a goal like “I will exercise for 30 minutes three times a week”. This clarity helps you create a concrete plan and makes it easier to track your progress, whether you have personal or business goals.
2. They Lack Accountability
Many people start the year with ambitious goals but don’t have a system in place to hold themselves accountable. Without regular check-ins or support, it’s easy to let these resolutions slip through the cracks.
What to do instead
Implement a system of accountability. Share your goals with a friend or mentor who can provide encouragement and check in on your progress. Alternatively, use tools like progress trackers, apps, or regular self-assessments to keep yourself on track.
3. They’re Often Overly Ambitious
While setting high goals can be motivating, overly ambitious resolutions can be overwhelming. When the goals are too big, the journey can feel daunting, and it’s easy to become discouraged if progress isn’t immediate.
What to do instead
Set realistic, incremental goals. Break down your larger resolution into smaller, manageable milestones. Celebrate each achievement along the way to maintain motivation and build momentum.
The Tried and Tested Technique: The SMART Goal Framework
To overcome these pitfalls, consider using the SMART goal framework. This technique is widely recognized for its effectiveness in turning vague resolutions into actionable plans. Here’s how it works:
Specific. Define your goal clearly. Ask yourself what exactly you want to achieve and why it’s important. For example, instead of “I want to grow my business,” a specific goal would be “I want to increase my website traffic by 20% within six months.”
Measurable. Ensure your goal is quantifiable so you can track your progress. Ask yourself how you will measure success. For the goal of increasing website traffic, you could use tools like Google Analytics to monitor changes in visitor numbers.
Achievable. Set a realistic and attainable goal, given your resources and constraints. Consider whether the goal is within reach and what you need to accomplish it. For example, if you want to increase traffic on your website, consider if you have the time and tools to implement an effective marketing strategy.
Relevant. Ensure your goal aligns with your overall objectives and priorities. Ask yourself if the goal is meaningful and if it contributes to your long-term success. For instance, increasing website traffic should be relevant to your broader business objectives.
Time-Bound. Set a deadline for achieving your goal. Having a timeframe creates a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused. For example, aim to achieve a 20% increase in website traffic within six months rather than an open-ended goal.
Actionable Tip: Create an Action Plan
To put the SMART framework into practice, create an action plan with the following steps:
Outline specific actions you need to take to achieve your goal. For increasing website traffic, this might include writing blog posts, optimizing SEO, or running social media campaigns.
Set deadlines for each action step to ensure steady progress. For example, schedule blog posts for specific dates and set milestones for implementing SEO changes.
Monitor and adjust your plan regularly. Review your progress, assess what’s working or not, and make adjustments as needed to stay on track.
The bottom line: make resolutions work for YOU.
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be wishful promises that fade away. Using the SMART goal framework and creating a clear, actionable plan can turn your resolutions into tangible, achievable outcomes.
Remember, the key to success lies not in the resolution itself but in how you approach and execute your goals. Embrace the SMART framework, stay accountable, and break down your resolutions into manageable steps. By doing so, you’ll set yourself up for a successful year and turn those ambitious plans into reality.
Francesca – Armonica Studio
Francesca is the creator of Armonica Studio, a marketing consultancy focusing on strategy and communication. She is a Brand Strategist, a Communication Consultant, and the creator of The Armonica Blog: Marketing Insights And Actionable Tips For Creators And Makers. She currently lives in Berlin, Germany.
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