Like many people, I begin every new year with a set of goals and resolutions in mind. But usually a few weeks in that  list of  resolutions are harder to find than my gym shoes. But this year I want things to be different so I have researched and found several tips to help myself….and you, to survive the new year!  These tips and tricks are just a few of the ways that you can become a better version of yourself in the new year.

1. Set Realistic Goals

When setting goals and making resolutions, make sure they are reasonable. While the idea of doing a major overhaul on your diet seems like a good idea at first, you will be hating yourself a few days in. Instead try making small changes over time so you don’t feel overwhelmed and give up. You can’t reach a goal overnight, so be patient with yourself. Remember, good things take time. 

 

2. Hold Yourself Accountable

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when attempting to keep your goals and resolutions is to keep them a secret. Encourage your friends and family members to support you, write down your goals in an planner, and set reminders on your phone or computer. When you reach a goal, celebrate! Reward yourself for all of your hard work. Over time you will see all those little results add up to big changes.

 

3. Focus on Yourself

It’s similar to the speech they give on airplanes – put on your oxygen mask before helping others put theirs on. If you aren’t taking care of yourself you can’t be a good mom, wife, daughter, friend, etc. – So don’t neglect yourself this year. Spend some time doing things that make you happy with no guilt or shame. 

 

4. Be Optimistic

Life is much easier when you have a positive outlook. Motivate yourself the way that you would motivate others. When you find yourself getting frustrated or down on yourself, ask yourself what you would say to your best girlfriend who was feeling that way – then say it to yourself! 

 

5. Make Time for Loved Ones

Make more time to do things that you enjoy with the people that make you happy. Relationships are the best part of life so make sure you aren’t too busy doing other things to enjoy the people that make your life great. 

 

6.  Spend (and Save) Wisely

There are countless ways to go about saving money. Keeping all of your change in a jar, skipping that extra Starbucks run or setting creating a budget for your spending are a few ways to handle your finances. Any amount of extra change can be helpful, whether it comes to paying a bill or buying yourself a something new.

 

7. Get Moving

Getting in shape is a cliché resolution, but, let’s face it, physical health is important. Any kind of exercise is better than none at all, but finding a workout that you enjoy will make this goal more of a hobby. If you can’t make it to a gym, walking outside or doing home workouts  are a great option. 

 

8. Try Something New

Whether it be a new food or a new hobby, try something new in the new year. You might really enjoy something that you’ve never done before.

 

9.  Unplug for a While

Spend less time watching Netflix, scrolling through Facebook, and playing games on your phone. Too much screen time doesn’t do anybody any good. Instead of binge watching your favorite TV show, read a book, take a walk, or play a board game.

 

10. Manage Your Stress

Try new ways to destress by journaling, doing yoga, or meditating. Removing yourself from the chaos of your daily life could improve your mood, concentration, and performance at school or work.