4. Fill the Vacuum
“Apples can take years off your life,” says this image.
It’s tricky to stay committed to pulling back on a vice if in its place is a gaping hole. Fill it. “If your resolution is to cut out caffeine, add something new to your diet that makes you happy,” advises Lee. “Try a new fruit or flavored beverage every week.” Replacing the old, unhealthy behavior with a new, beneficial one will make it easier to change—and give you two life improvements for the price of one.
5. Track Your Progress
Resolution #43. Find better stock photography.
Get a notebook and keep a record of your commitment, says life coach Leah Carey. Write down the specific actions you take to meet your goal each day. If you don’t do anything one day to meet your goal, make a note of that as well. Then forgive yourself and take up the challenge again the next day. The process will hold you accountable while helping you stay on task and make baby steps toward your goals.
6. Be Flexible
Can you think of a better image to illustrate “be flexible?” ’Cause we sure can’t.
You might find your resolutions aren’t as realistic as you once thought. But rather than just giving up, adjust your outlook. “Be ready to switch to plan B if you find that your original plan isn’t successful,” says Marla Sloane, Ph.D., an executive life coach. Maybe getting to the gym three times a week is unrealistic, but you can make it twice and join a weekend sports league to get a third fitness session in. That’s much better than throwing in the towel. It might even be fun, too.
