Resolutions

Yes, it's that time of year again—specifically, the beginning. I suppose it is healthy to look back over the previous year and assess what was actually checked off and then to look forward and set some new goals.

As an average round white man I would bet that my list is not much different than any other person's. Appearance, money, making a mark and spirituality are probably the most common ingredients a person's life, so it would make sense that if we find ourselves lacking in any of these areas we would like to improve them.

Resolutions fail for multiple reasons, but the overarching reason would be that most people treat the symptoms of a lifestyle rather than address the lifestyle choices that brought them their current dissatisfaction. The cause of this is more than likely not knowing how to change or even worse, not being aware that a change is needed. For instance, it would appear that some people are under the impression that they are overweight due to a shortage of weight-loss medication rather than over eating or lack of exercise.

If you know what needs changing, the next step is to make a plan. Just because it's the new year doesn't mean you have to start on the first. Do some research, gain some knowledge. Write it down. If you're a numbers person, make a chart. Whatever you do, find some structure that you can be accountable to as well as fall back on in a moment of weakness.

Make sure your plan is also realistic. Remember, we trying to change a lifestyle, not just cover a symptom, so is it realistic that bread not be a part of your diet? Are you never going to dine out anymore? A good rule of thumb is to keep the pendulum as close to the center while still achieving measurable progress. If you swing one way to drastically the momentum will carry in the opposite direction when you inevitably are unable to stick to your unrealistic plan.

Finally, create a support structure. Accountability is key to any successful venture, and it's important to surround ourselves with people we trust and won't be afraid to call us out.

In my almost thirty-one years I've learned that my goals are more attainable when I have a plan—more importantly a realistic plan. And not to mention a heavy dose of commitment. No matter the goal you should start asking yourself some questions, first and foremost "how did I get here." Like a breadcrumb trail it's the best way to finding your way out of the woods.