A lot of people deride the idea of New Year’s resolutions because so many people make them and don’t keep them. Even if that’s true, it seems to me there is some virtue in trying.
But in any event, I looked up some (allegedly) science-based ways to keep your resolutions.
Make them …
- Specific and Measurable – not “exercise more,” but “run 10 miles a week.”
- Attainable – especially in the first few days and weeks. Start small and build rather than shooting for the moon.
- Piggyback on pre-existing habits – e.g., after I shower I will stretch for ten minutes, or before I turn on the TV I will read.
- Fun – tie them to something you enjoy doing.
- Positive – not “I will lose weight,” but “I will reach a healthy weight and fit into my skinny clothes.”
Finally, be accountable to someone. Some apps do that, but a real person is better. E.g., I like to chart my weight on the bathroom mirror.
