Resolutions Versus Small Changes

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Resolutions are a tradition around this time of year. Maybe it’s the turkey coma or the pile of Christmas cookies you ate but, for some reason, you find yourself vowing to your nearest and dearest that “This is the year…!” (Fill in your favourite projected life change – probably something like watching less tv, eating better, working out, waking up earlier, procrastinating less, and generally becoming an all-around amazing human.) Of course, if you’re anything like most people, you have a few years of these resolutions under your belt… and not much has changed.

Instead of resolutions, try small changes gradually. If you’re trying to watch less tv, just reduce your screen time by an hour a week until you feel like you have it under control. Or, if you’re starting a fitness regime, try a 10-minute walk once or twice a week. Psychologist Peter Herman, a lecturer at the University of Toronto, cites “false-hope syndrome” as part of a cycle of unrealistic failed resolutions.  He urges people to understand that small achievable goals may not provide the drastic lifestyle makeover that they were hoping for, but they will improve your life incrementally.

Habit change as a gradual process is much easier and more likely to succeed than an overnight makeover of your life. The American Psychological Association recommends making a plan, starting small, changing one thing at a time, enlisting a friend, and asking for the support of those closest to you. These building blocks will hopefully ensure that you are not only accountable to yourself, but also to a larger community.  When we involve others in our small changes, they may also become inspired to make their own changes. What better way to inspire yourself when you’re making your own little change than to remember that you may be helping someone you love to make changes just by following your own realistic plan?

What small changes are you going to make?  Or are you still interested in the Big Resolution? Let me know on Facebook.