Why do 88-92% fail?

Almost 50% of Americans set New Year's resolutions, however only 8-12% succeed. Don't wait until 12/31/2015 to make your next goal(s).  Start a new month's resolution or a new week's resolution.  It is never too late to start. Let's take a look at why New Year's resolutions fail:

1. Goals are too vague

2. Negativity doesn't help your cause

3. Too many goals

4. Be realistic



Goals are too vague
Don't set goals like, "lose some weight", "eat healthier", or "quit smoking".  Those goals are too vague and will more than likely put you into that 88-92% fail statistic. 

• Instead of "lose some weight", set an attainable goal.  For example, "lose 20 pounds over the next 6 months."  Then you have an attainable goal.  You can also set smaller goals and celebrate your accomplishments (like: lose 3 pounds per month).  You will have to change your mentality also so if you fall short, then use that as fuel to work even harder.  Keep your eyes on the bigger goal.
• Instead of "eat healthier", try a more specific goal, like:  "I will substitute two fast food meals per week for a healthier home cooked meal."  This is more realistic and a smaller change.
• Instead of "quit smoking", try:  "I will quit smoking my morning cigarette right after I wake up."  Start small and then build upon that.  Replace a bad habit with a good habit.  Try taking the stairs two more times each day. Drink 1 more bottle/cup of water per day. Try to eat an apple or a banana throughout the day.  Simple and easy (small) changes will help you adapt better and make you less likely to fail.

Negativity
Guilt and shame do not work. They are usually the reasons people lose site of their goals and fail. The worse you feel about yourself the less efficient you will be at accomplishing your goals.  Don't call yourself names, but instead reward yourself every week.  It could be as little as a small piece of chocolate cake on a Sunday afternoon.  Surround yourself with positive people that are on board with your goal and continue to cheer you on.  Getting a buddy with a similar goal is a good idea.  You can motivate each other and hold each other accountable.


To many goals
Try to focus on one goal, with smaller, sub-goals put in place. These smaller goals will boost confidence and re-enforce the positive attitude and drive, to reach your larger goal. Too much all at once will more than likely make you resort back to your "old ways".


Be realistic
Hopefully this point has gotten drilled into your head over the course of this blog.  Don't set goals that are way to far out of reach.  Put in place smaller more attainable goals.  These will boost confidence, keep you on track and eventually get you to your larger goals. 

I hope this helps you in your journey. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Best,

Mark Robinson, ATC, CSCS