5 Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions

Lisa Franchi January 03, 2013

It’s the third day of January. Have you started doing something to achieve your goals for this year? Have you started dropping the unhealthy habits that you included in your New Year’s resolution? The desire to change for the better sounds beautiful and inspiring. There’s no wonder lots of people create their own resolutions every start of the year. Sadly, only 8 percent of them are able to achieve their goals.

If you’re sick and tired of the traditional New Year’s resolutions or you have been making your own for the past years but couldn’t get to succeed in achieving them, here are five alternatives that might make your 2013 more fruitful , meaningful and incredible!

1. Write about what your 2013 would have been like.

Imagine today is 2014. Then, write yourself a letter and narrate your experiences for 2013, including what you did to achieve your goals for that year. Write all your plans and the strategies you can think of to fulfil your goals. Include in your letter some advice for your future self. Through this, you are actually creating a master plan of your life in 2013. As you write, you might be able to arrive on the best ways to reach your goals and change your ways, and determine what else in life you want to achieve for this year and the coming years.

2. Be thankful.

Society teaches us that New Year’s resolutions are all about listing all the things we wanted to change or we wanted done. But isn’t the New Year also a great time to be thankful for everything we’ve got? Make a list of all things you are grateful for before proceeding with your New Year’s wish list. You will be surprised of how it will affect your outlook in 2013.

3. Have something to look forward to.

If you bombard yourself with resolutions like “do this”, “stop doing that”, “become like this”, “avoid becoming like that”, etc – you are making your entire year very stressful even before it starts! Make at least 5 things to look forward to in 2013. Whether it’s a new TV show, an upcoming movie, or a vacation with your loved ones, these simple pleasures will certainly make you feel calmer and more motivated to pursue your goals for the year.

4. Look back on the best memories of your 2012.

Research shows that remembering good memories increases one’s willpower and perseverance – things you need to achieve your goals in the future. Maybe you’ve got an increase in your salary rate last year, or you’ve got a new pet, a new car, or a new house. Maybe you’ve met new friends. These wonderful things definitely deserve a big space in your memory.

5. Lend a hand.

Studies show that people who reach out to others tend to be happier and healthier. Donate to a charity, volunteer in community works, or organise activities for the less-privileged people. This year, try to be more giving and compassionate; and experience a sudden boost in your well-being and happiness.

Dear Readers,

What other alternatives for New Year’s resolution can you add on our list? We’d love to hear from you.

Share your comments below!