Keep Your New Year's Resolution Resolute

Ah, the New Year… finally time to become who you've always wanted to be.

Isn't that what you said last year, though?

So, what do you do when you're only a few weeks into January, and your willpower is as reliable as a squirrel at a nut convention?

Research shows that 23% of people quit their resolution by the end of the first week, and 43% quit by the end of January.?In fact, the second Friday of January has been aptly deemed "Quitters Day" for this very reason.

So, what now? Throw in the towel? Wait for the next New Year? No way!

Just Do Something

Perfectionism is the enemy of progress. Waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect plan, the perfect mood? It's like waiting for a unicorn to show up at your doorstep. You don't always get a unicorn. Sometimes, you have to start on a donkey. Focus on the smallest action you can take.

Want to write a book? Write a sentence. Want to get fit? Do ten push-ups. It's about building momentum and orienting yourself towards success, step by tiny step. Eventually, that donkey will turn into a unicorn.

Resist the Resistance

In "The War of Art," Steven Pressfield talks about resistance as the enemy of creation. This resistance keeps you from hitting the gym, saving money, or learning a new skill. It's sneaky, convincing, and loves comfort and safety. The trick is to see resistance not as a barrier but as a sign that you're onto something good. Something worth fighting for. So, put on your metaphorical boxing gloves and punch through that resistance. Every time you do, it gets a little weaker, and you get a little stronger.

Block and Tackle

This isn't a football strategy; it's a life strategy. Block time in your calendar for your goals – this is your 'blocking.' Then, 'tackle' the specific tasks in these time blocks. And here's a pro tip: turn off all notifications during these blocks. Don't let technology or other people dictate your attention. Your time, your rules.

Attract Motivation

Motivation is like a fair-weather friend – great when it's around, but unreliable. Discipline is the friend who's there for you, rain or shine. Motivation is attracted to action. The more disciplined you are, especially when it's hard, the more likely motivation will show up. Remember, you're in charge, not your fleeting feelings.

Know Your Greatest Power

As we navigate the maze of life, it's easy to get caught up in what others are doing, what social media tells us we should be doing, and what the latest internet gurus preach. But here's the thing: you know yourself better than anyone else. Use your past experiences, failures, and successes to guide you. The path to your goals is uniquely yours.

Your greatest power is the power to choose.

Make the daily choice to fight through resistance, take small steps towards your goals, schedule and tackle tasks methodically, and rely on discipline over elusive motivation.

Do these five things every day, and your resolve will be resolute.