WASHINGTON — Why do most of us fail to keep our New Year resolutions? It’s because we’re so overbooked, overworked and overwhelmed that our resolutions just become another wish list for a new life of happiness and peace that continues to elude us.
Before setting your goals for 2015, it’s important to take a snapshot of 2014. Most of us are tired of living our precious lives like Bill Murray in the movie “Groundhog Day.”
Take a look at some tips for taking back your life.
- Create a theme for 2015: Name 2015 with one word that would describe what you want this year to embody (for example, Forgiveness, Success, Prosperity, Love). What word would you use to describe your experience of 2014?
- Choose concrete goals: Choose three things you would like to create in your life this year. Write them down. Commit to a ritual or ceremony to symbolize your commitment. Make a step-by-step plan. Assess how you are doing with your new goals — such as getting your new job, a better marriage, reducing your debt or getting healthier — every week.
- Reinforce: Create an intention statement or a positive affirmation. This creates energy, focus and confidence as you work toward your goal. Repeat it often during your busy day. Stick notes along your daily routine — on the mirror, refrigerator, in your car or on your computer. (For example: “Life is good; I am healthy and strong”).
- Remind: Use physical, sensory reminders that reinforce your memory. Listen to motivational music or tapes of inspirational people you enjoy.
- Connect: Increasing scientific evidence suggests that your community keeps you healthy. Enlist support from friends and family. Join online groups and blog lists.
- De-stress: Stress forces us back into old habits. Each time some event or person hits your stress trigger, practice stress reduction techniques. Do something fun at least once a day.
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