Looking to boost your happiness in 2009? Lots of people want to make changes, so they create New Year’s resolutions. The most popular are about health (get fit or lose weight), money (earn more or get out of debt), or relationships (find one or improve the one you’ve got).
Although a whopping 92 percent of people won’t reach their ultimate goals, you can! To be part of that successful 8 percent bunch, here’s the secret—create a plan.
People who reach their goals do more than just wish for change; they make a blueprint for it. With a firm plan, you’ll be on your way to a better life, long after your January enthusiasm fizzles out. Here’s how:
- Get Specific: Do you know the biggest mistake people make when creating resolutions? They’re too vague, like, “I want to relax more.” A powerful resolution always answers the question, “How?” How will I relax more? Here’s a better resolution: “I plan to relax more so I’ll start each day with five minutes of deep breathing.” Now you’re on your way!
- Write It Down: Keep track of your successes, whether it’s going for a brisk walk or adding veggies to your dinner. By documenting your progress on paper, you’ll see how well you’re doing, and that gives you momentum.
- Plan for Slip-Ups: Change is often one step forward, two steps back. Successful people know this so they don’t give up if they mess up. Instead, they plan for it. One strategy is to enlist the help of family or friends for slip-ups. For example, if you want to save $100 a month, say, “Chris, if I want to buy something frivolous, can you say, ‘Do you really need that?’”
