New Year's Resolutions, My Take

Well, it's that time again. One year ends, a new one begins. For some, this is just another year in which they get older, return to the daily grind and end it the same way they did the previous year. For others, this is seen as a new beginning, one where they will make some changes in their lives and ensure that it is much more memorable than the previous one. Whether it is deciding to take a trip, learn something new, accomplish a goal etc, a new year brings with it new opportunities.

This brings us to the concept of 'New Year's Resolutions'. These are goals that people set for themselves every new year, mainly commitments towards projects, personal changes, changes in lifestyle etc. They differ slightly from life goals, in that they are seen as a way to improve one's health, appearance, personality etc rather than one that helps one move to another stage in their lives (though most resolutions can help you achieve these goals). Unfortunately, not everyone keeps their resolutions. Some people try it for a week or a month and then decide that it's too hard, too mundane or just not worth it and so they quit.

I guess some people realise that the resolutions they've set for themselves was more than they bargained for or one that they don't particularly need and so they walk away. Fear not, folks. Good ol' Bernd is here to show you the way.

1. Make realistic resolutions

Kind of a no-brainer, but you must make sure that the resolutions you set are achievable for you. It's ok to dream and set yourself a challenge but make sure you know exactly what you need to do to get there. And also, make sure that you can achieve them within the year.

2. Decide to actually achieve these resolutions.

Don't make a resolution unless you are prepared to fight tooth and nail to achieve it. Setting a resolution only to quit the next week is meaningless.

3. Prepare to battle adversity

Like all goals, you are bound to run into some form of difficulty with your resolutions. If you're serious about it, you will find a solution to every problem you encounter rather than take the easy way out.

4. Prepare to work

Just as adversity is all but guaranteed for resolutions, so is hard work that comes with achieving the prize. Don't be lazy and look for shortcuts. If you really want it, you must work for it.

5. Ignore the naysayers

There's a good chance that some people you know will laugh at your resolution, perhaps say that you are incapable of achieving it. Don't let their negativity bring you down - use it as extra motivation to achieve the goal and make them eat a huge serving of crow.

6. Stay disciplined

This mainly applies to goals that involve your health (eg. lose weight, quit smoking, drink less etc). I notice that these types of resolutions usually have a high number of quitters and it's usually because the person either couldn't handle the hard work that comes with it or because they simply fell prey to temptation. If you are serious about your goals you need to strengthen your willpower and learn to overcome these temptations.

7. Be patient and stay focused

Most goals don't happen overnight. Sometimes it can take years of hard work to achieve them. New Year's Resolutions are no different. Sure, your resolution shouldn't take more than a year to achieve but that doesn't mean you need to get discouraged if it doesn't happen within the first six months of the year. Patience is key.

Well, that's about it from me. Hopefully this helps some of you out in regards to your resolutions. But remember, if you are serious about your resolutions, you will stay true to them and not give up at the first sign of hardship. Like all goals, you have to work in order to achieve results and if you quit, you'll be left with nothing but regrets.

Good luck, and Happy New Year to all!