Progress check on new year’s resolutions

In a certain period of our lives we all fall on that psychological trap that new year will be perfect to change a few things we know aren’t on the right track but couldn’t find yet time, motivation, commitment or discipline to address.

Therefore we try to get an ally. And new year is the perfect match. A new start, old vs new, turning the page, starting all over again. So let’s wait for that period to face the facts and build our new year’s resolution. The road to a new “me”. Better, healthier, more self-confident, losing some weight, getting in better shape or fin new jobs. Everything will be possible than because it’s new year and we’re so excited and motivated. It’s time to re-invent ourselves that we just can’t wait.   

I have nothing against new year’s resolutions. I just wonder why we don’t come up with resolutions every time we see ourselves derailing. Ah right, we should wait for the “right time” and in this case the right rime is New Year. Who does resolutions outside of New year? Never heard of anyone. Guess what, the right time concept doesn’t exist. There will be always something in the way. The right time is now (after observation, consideration, vision and plan).

The problem with New year’s resolution is, for the vast majority it’s a simple wishlist. It’s not a factual list, a commitment, a plan with its timelines, visions and targets. It’s a wishlist we expect somehow things and circumstances will work in our favor and manifest the way we wanted. In the first couple of weeks we are still excited about the idea and working a bit on it. Eating healthier, doing some sports, watching less TV, reading more, being friendly to people around. But changes in oneself take time. And patience. And discipline. And commitment. In our society model we set our brains for quick results. We somehow fool ourselves that with little effort we’ll have visible reward.  

As the weeks go by and  we start losing grip. As we don’t have anyone to answer on our plan progress, as there’s no accountability, we simply let our arms fall down, and alibis and excuses pop up immediately. It’s rainy I can’t run outside, I’m tired has been a hard day. I’m depressed with my job, I’m very busy. 

Why does this happens? because there’s no real plan. No details. No action list. Next time, instead of wishlist, build up an action list. A real plan. Why, what, when, who.

Remember the old expression, if you really want something you’ll find a way to get it. If you don’t, you’ll find excuses.