How to Write a New Year's Resolution

It is almost 2016, which means time to write down your new resolutions. Writing down and brainstorming resolutions is a common ritual for the beginning of a new year. You have probably written down resolutions for school, sports, and activities, all of which you are hoping to get better at. However, if you truly want to improve in certain areas of your life you need to know how to build a proper resolution. Here are the steps to building and achieving your 2016 resolutions.

• Write down your resolutions 

The start of building a resolution is by writing down a resolution. Studies show that if you write down a goal you are by far more likely to achieve them. When you write down your goals put them in a notebook you can look back on and reflect them. Or, some may prefer to put their resolution on a notecard that they hang on a bulletin board they see often. Wherever you choose to put your resolution you want to be sure you can find your resolution by the end of the year, reflect on your resolution, be reminded of your plans, and be inspired to continue working towards the goal.  

• Write down the Why and How

When writing your resolutions you should remember to include why you want to work toward this goal. Is it for your health, happiness, or future? Most likely your goal will be for many reasons. When writing down why you chose this goal be very clear. An example of this is if your resolution is to manage your time better the why may be: In 2016 I hope to build better time management skills because I want to have time cook and do other activities I love. I also want to have more time management skills so I will be able to get all the rest I need to feel fully energized the next day. Another key aspect is the how. The how will give you a plan to stick to and a way to make sure the goal will be achieved. To continue my example, a clear "how" may be: In 2016 I will become better at time management by writing everything I must do in a planner and sticking to my schedule. I will not become distracted and will stay on task with the work I must do. 

• Find a Way to Be Inspired 

When inspired to achieve your goal you are more likely to actively work towards your goal. Everyone has different ways to inspire themselves. For some it may be putting up a reminder about your goal in your room, while for others they would prefer to put that reminder on their phone. The inspiration is a key aspect of achieving your goals. Eventually a piece of your inspiration may be looking back at the progress and growth you've made.

• Don't Forget About the Resolution

Check back at your resolutions often throughout the year. Reflect on how much closer to your resolution you are and how much farther you have until you've achieved your goal. If your goal is a daily activity you hope to participate in, think about how often you've actually done it and how it has helped you. This will help you stick with your goal.