As the new year rolls in, all of us are eager to make this year 'our best year'. Gym memberships are renewed, junk food is discarded, new self-help books are purchased. The first week goes smoothly, then the excitement starts to wear off, and soon we're back to square one.
I always advise people to make changes to their lifestyle only if they are absolutely certain that they will be able to stick to them for the rest of their life. Yes, sometimes we all go off track, but if those habits are really important to us, we will always be able to find our way back.
Here are a few important steps to follow in order to create lasting changes in your life:
1) Convince your mind -
The first step is to convince your mind that your goal is achievable. 'Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.' Visualization and affirmations are very helpful tools in this regard. (Read 'Ask & You Shall Receive.')
2. Plan, plan, plan -
Although planning consumes a lot of time and effort, it makes the next steps much easier. Goals get achieved much faster when their execution is planned. As they say, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."
3. Set achievable goals -
Instead of setting a complex target, you can break down the large goal into smaller, more achievable goals. By doing this, you will achieve what you set out to do, without the mental pressure and exhaustion. (Read 'Break It Down.')
4. Work smartly -
There are many techniques that can help you work more efficiently. Research and experiment in order to find what works best for you. (Read 'The 2 Minute Rule & The 5 Second Window.')
5. Reward yourself -
Hustling 24*7 can lead to burnout. Learn to take a break once a week or every few days -- spend time with yourself and your loved ones, do something that gives you joy, or just relax by doing nothing. This will help refresh your body and mind, and it will make the journey all the more exciting.
6. Commit and recommit -
The last, but definitely not the least important step is to always renew your commitment towards your goals. We all get so caught up with our daily routines, that we often forget about what we really want in life, what really matters. It is vital to take out at least five minutes at the beginning of your day, to remind yourself about your goals and to pat yourself on the back for reaching this far.
You can do this! Happy New Year, everyone!
Thank you for reading! Stay blessed!
© TheKindTempest