New Year, New Goals: 5 Tips to Making Better New Year's Resolutions

Christmas is just behind us, and the new year is literally hours away. It's a bittersweet time of reflection, anticipation, gratitude, and excitement. Usually, around this time people are making resolutions, bidding adieu to the past year, and looking forward with hopeful optimism.  

So many people, however, put heavy focus on the physical aspect.  Of course, it is great to be healthy, but not all resolutions must be weight-loss related... a resolution is the perfect time to check in with yourself, your partner, and your kids.  What's missing in  your life? What do you crave more of? What are your dreams and hopes? 

5 Tips to Make a Good Resolution 

1. Will this resolution make a difference in my life in one year? Five years? 10 years?  The loftier the goal, the better.  If something only benefits now, think deeper. A goal of lose 5 lbs might be a good start, but how will that really benefit you in 10 years? Think deeper. A resolution of completing overhauling your family's pantry and toiletries will affect your health (mental and physical) in 10 years. 
2. Make resolutions that affect others - not just yourself.  Consider this resolution: start a new hobby.  It is a perfectly fine resolution but how much better is this one: start a new hobby with my son. This type of resolution encourages relationship building with a loved one - what better than that? 
3. Ask yourself why.  Why do you want to make your resolution? What is your motivation? Knowing your "why" will help you keep working towards your resolution beyond February.  Knowing what motivates you can help you make your resolution last all year long.
4. Find an accountability partner.  Whatever your goal is, share your goal with someone. This will not only help you on days when you lack motivation, but it will also allow you to share your successes with someone too. 
5. Journal.  Depending on your particular resolution, journaling may help you keep track of goals, keep to-do lists, and track your progress. It's rewarding to see. 

What is your New Year's Resolution? 

Share your goals below! 

P.S. The Cor Domum podcast Season 2 will be airing soon - stay tuned for parenting tips to use throughout the new year.