New Years Resolutions

It is the time of year where people make promises that they will change some aspect of their life that is less then perfect. The new year brings a sense of newness into peoples lives, a rejuvenation of purpose. I think this new beginning is great, but I feel that new years resolutions are ineffective.

At New Years how often do we here of someone promising they will quit smoking, starting a new exercise routine, or some new diet? Everywhere we turn people are starting new things or giving up bad habits, and while they have the best intentions and put forth effort, inevitably most will fail to keep this up for more then a week. Why is this phenomenon so rampant? Is it because no one can handle the changes they promote so heavily?

I believe that the technique in proper execution of accomplishing goals is cast aside when it comes to these resolutions. Most likely we will choose some large, semi-vague goal, attempt to tackle it all at once, and then fall flat on our face trying to accomplish it in a matter of days. Sound familiar.

There is a way to avoid this. What does it take to actually accomplish any goal worth setting? Break it down. When we understand that it will be a process to achieve success we are more likely to accomplish what we set out to do. Michael Jordan didn't become a legend in a week. It took years for him to attain his high level of athletic ability. And this is how it will be with all of us.

I believe that most of our thought out new years resolutions are good, if not great. They are worthwhile improvements to make in our lives. Let us each take the time and make the effort to breakdown our goals into achievable ones. We can have a great year as we actually keep our new years resolutions.

Yea 2009!!!