To say that the pressure of having resolutions to start the new year with is high would be a bit of an understatement, wouldn’t it? All these years, and yet, the great trend of “New Year’s Resolution” hasn’t gone away and left us alone already! Which basically means, like every other year, we are doomed to making our resolutions (yes, yes, even we’re going to start going to the gym this year), and then doomed to fail.

But what if we found you a cheat sheet of kinds? A way to make keeping your resolutions a little bit easier. It’s not foolproof of course (because if you are determined not to keep it up, what can we possibly do). But if you’re genuinely trying to be sincere and make an actual effort, how about you try these methods to make the way slightly easier.

1. Use the ‘Buddy System’

Everything in life is easier with a friend (well, except how to stop laughing when you’re both guffawing). There will be days when you want to give up, there will be days when you’re friend wants to give up. It’s ok, you’ve got each other’s backs, like always. When one of you runs low on motivation, the other will immediately boost it up. Because, let’s face it, just because we’re adults doesn’t mean we don’t need to still be dragged out of bed on some days. Whether it’s suffering through morning jogs, or trying a new class, or hobby, having a friend along for the ride always makes it more fun.

Image Source – Elite Daily

2. Keep track

Keep a separate diary or journal to keep track of your progress every day. And make sure to make an entry every single day (even if you don’t follow through with your resolution on any particular day – that’s ok). As the days progress, you’ll realize how much work you’ve actually been putting in (as well as seeing how many times you’ve been slacking off). Seeing it right there in black and white really helps in refocusing yourself. Works wonders every time.

Image Source – James Clear

3. Don’t date it! 

No, this isn’t a romantic comedy reference. We’re just talking about regular calendar related dates. The biggest issue with starting any new thing up, whether a resolution or a good old-fashioned habit, is that we always put off starting it, and then it turns into this big production in our heads, and the pressure just unnecessarily builds up. And for what? We’re the ones who are turning that looming Monday into such a scary monster. It’s high time to stop putting so much importance on the day or date we are to start something, and instead just focus on that which we’re supposed to start. No more being worried about Mondays, and 1sts, and 15ths, and just get on with it. Put the focus back where it should be and just do it.

Image Source – Military.com

4. Hit the Start button (Again!)

You’re human. We know. And people will stumble, fail, and fall. It’s but natural. There is nothing to be ashamed about. What you shouldn’t lose focus of is that you need to get back up and get back on track. There is no shame in restarting, and it doesn’t matter how many times you have to do it. Remember, resolutions are for you own betterment. You make them because you want to see some improvement or change in some aspect of your life. As long as you remember your intentions as to why you got onto this path to begin with, you should be able to get back onto it. Everyone is struggling to keep up with the promises they make to themselves. You’re not the only one, so don’t be afraid to keep at it.

Image Source – Free Management Library

We wish you a very happy, prosperous, and satisfying new year. May you be happier, younger at heart, and power through everything that life throws your way.

Happy New Year!