Values and Resolutions

In theory, New Year's resolutions are a great idea.  Who wouldn't want to make progress on goals that they've struggled to adhere to in the past?  Building a habit takes time and allotting a month’s worth of time towards a goal creates a sufficient window of time towards building your chosen habit.  So why are resolutions traditionally so difficult to keep?

I believe that most people have difficulty keeping New Year's resolutions primarily because their resolutions do not fit in with their values.  For instance, if you're looking to get into shape but don't value health or an active lifestyle, it will be challenging to commit to a month or more’s worth of regular exercise.  One stressful day or sick day and that non-valued activity will go out the window.  

If you want to stick to your resolutions, choose habits or activities that fit in with your values.  Do you value creativity?  Set a resolution that allows you more time to create things.  Do you value family?  Set aside time each day for thirty uninterrupted mindful minutes to eat dinner with your family.  Do you value generosity?  Look for a cause to donate to regularly or find volunteer work.  You are much more likely to stick with New Year's resolutions if those resolutions fit in with your value systems.  Happy New Year!