You want to be on time. You want to eat better. You swear you'll exercise. That's what you said at the end of 2016, too.
What if you could really, truly tackle last year's resolution for 2018?
When plotting goals, the more targeted the better, says Alok Trivedi, author of "Chasing Success: Lessons in Aligned Performance" and founder of Chicago-based Aligned Performance Institute, where he coaches on performance.
1. Think of things that can be measured. Make a plan to check in every quarter.
Ask yourself what's important to you. "You've got to look at your previous resolutions and ask yourself, 'Is this really a high value to me?' " Trivedi says. Look at where you spend your time and energy. That's what you care about. It might be your children, for example. Consider how weight loss might affect them. Would you be able to play with them more? Use that as motivation to achieve your goal.
2. Lose the shame. Dr. Bradley Nelson, a chiropractor/author who works with people on topics like depression and unresolved anger, suggests checking in with yourself emotionally. People often fail at goals because of what he calls self-sabotage.
Ask yourself, "What needs to be released in order for me to accomplish this goal?" or, "Do I deserve to achieve my goal?" Nelson, author of "The Emotion Code," said we can be too hard on ourselves when we don't achieve goals, so begin with positivity. "Set goals that stretch you, but not so far you might snap," he said. Find and release that emotional baggage.
3. Set realistic and specific goals. You're not going to be on time to everything the very first week you try. If you set an unrealistic expectation, the minute that you fail, you may give up.
Ken Dolan-Del Vecchio, a Boston author on habits and health, suggests putting a number with the goal. Make your resolutions specific and measurable: "I will take a walk that lasts at least 20 minutes two days each week" or "I will put at least $25 into my savings account after every paycheck," instead of "I will exercise more" or "I will save more."
4. Bring in friends. Bring in people who love you, and encourage them to bug you and check in on your progress. Dolan-Del Vecchio says to choose with care — ask people who respect you and aren't judgmental or prone to gossip. And go ahead, post on social media.
Dr. Indra Cidambi, who works with recovering addicts as founder of New Jersey-based Center for Network Therapy, said she tells clients that sharing goals and progress increases a chance of success.
5. Accept imperfection. Jaime Brenkus, a Cleveland fitness expert, might help people lose weight and become fit, but he's not saying to never indulge. "Knowing that you can have a piece of decadent cake and still see results is empowering and sets you up for long-term success," he said. "A stumble is not a tumble." And don't create an all-or-nothing proposition. Even if things don't pan out as planned, adds Trivedi, "you say that's a great learning experience."
