How language makes all the difference for new years resolutions to stick

Most of us feel that shift in mindset when 1 January rolls around once again. We have a clear slate in front of us. The mind has difficulty with empty space so we love to come up with a plan. And why not put this ‘fresh start’ mentality to good use?

Over the next few days I will be setting out some principles which can get you ahead of the game in helping those resolutions “stick”. Here is the first:

You may want to ditch the word ‘resolution’

It sounds like nit-picking but language creates our inner world and if your first instinct is to scoff when you hear that word, its unlikely to work for you. Alternatives include ‘intention’ or ‘theme’ (for a gentler approach) or ‘challenge’ if that is a word that gets your motivation revving. The bottom line is that you want something to change this year and you are free to describe it in the way that inspires you most.

Do you want the freedom of an overarching ‘theme’, whereby you can pick and choose which activities fall into it as the year progresses? This gives you the chance to go with a big picture idea like ‘nutrition’, ‘creativity’. ‘relationships’, ‘me-time’ and make those activities a priority in the year ahead.

Or maybe you want to play hard-ball. You want to be stretched and choose a ‘challenge’ because you thrive in a challenge mindset.

You may want to prove yourself to others by deciding on a resolution. If that’s the case, check that this is still something you want to do for you. We are far more likely to stick to new goals  if our motivation is instrinsic (from within) than extrinsic (from external forces like friends or family).

Take a moment to reflect on the wording that suits you best, because the more ownership you take of your goal, the more likely it is to stick. Tune in for tomorrow’s instalment…

Wishing you all a happy and peaceful 2017!