How’s that going for you? For me? Well, let’s just say I’m still saying, “I’ll start Monday.”
Relatable?
That’s because research has proven that 50% of U.S. adults make New Year’s resolutions but a mere 10% follow through.
We are the 90% here.
But why? Do we not have it in us? Are we really that addicted to our Netflix shows that we can’t break away to go to the gym? (Ok, but seriously, are you caught up on Bridgerton?)
Psychology shows us that while we are all individuals, we are similar in so many ways. Thanks to scientific research on human normalities, we know there are 3 major reasons we fall off the track with our New Year New You game plan.
Take a deep breath and get ready to identify with all 3 of these. Unless of course, you’re part of the 10%. In which case you can rock on with your new Nike’s and kale smoothie. We see you.
We don’t actually want to change! Our old habits feel good. Like that favorite pair of sweatpants, we climb into when we’re feeling lazy. Our comfortable habits are embedded in our fibers and memory cells. Which means our subconscious remembers things we don’t actively think about making it oh so easy to reach for something familiar rather than something new and challenging.
We think we can eat the elephant. And then realize that’s actually frightening. When we focus on end results it’s incredibly easy to get discouraged and give up. Real, long lasting change takes commitment to small and achievable goals. This is when it is especially helpful to have a wellness coach to help keep you on track and ensure a greater chance of success. Little victories are the name of the game here.
But does it even mean that much to you? Research has shown we need passion to achieve our goals. We need to feel connected to the purpose. Think about how easy it is to jump out of bed to get on that flight for your vacay or make time for that special phone call to a loved one. I personally never miss a hair appointment because priorities. Spend some time reflecting on why you want to make this change. What does it ultimately mean? And find meaning in your goals.