Thursday, January 8, 2009

January Goals

Tradition dictates that every 365 days, you should try to kick bad habits and start your life anew. So sit down with a cup of hot chocolate, a paper and a pen, and reflect: What kinds of New Years Resolutions will you make for yourself this January?

Step 1 Be realistic by setting achievable goals. Running a 3 minute mile, for example, is out of your grasp.

Step2 Describe your resolutions in specific terms. Instead of "I don't want to be lazy," opt for "I want to exercise regularly" or "I will cut down on my television watching."

Step3 Break down large goals into smaller ones. For instance, commit to losing weight by resolving to join a gym and improve your eating habits.

Step4 Find alternatives to a behavior that you want to change, and make this part of your resolution plan. If caffeine speeds you up for a while, find something else that will take that place and is more healthy for you.

Step5 Above all, aim for things that are truly important to you, not what you think you ought to do or what others expect of you. Think about yourself and what you truly need to make a difference in your life. Be positive and make sure your goals are reachable so you don't set yourself up for disappointment.

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