Self-Control Secrets for Sustainable New Year’s Resolutions

Lisa Franchi December 29, 2011

3 days to go and its 2012! Have you thought of your New Year’s resolution? You must be thinking of starting right this coming year – eating healthy, going away from cigarettes and alcohol, and managing all other aspects of your life. There must be something about the New Year that makes us so hopeful and optimistic about our future. Whatever it is, all we know is the start of year is the best time to form the habit of being more in control of our life. But as January ends and months go by, we seem to put less effort to maintain what we have promised to ourselves before the year begins. No matter how we try, there are just some habits that are so hard to break.

The Art of Self-Control

Fortunately, there are several things we can do to become successful on keeping our New Year’s resolution and breaking away from the bad habits. Perhaps, the most important trait every one of us should develop is self-control. On a book written by an American psychologist Kelly McGonigal, she cited several ways on how individuals can become more in control of their life. She also discussed how people can break away from their unwanted habits and make healthy ones. According to McGonigal, we can be successful on maintaining our New Year’s resolution by changing our perspectives and creating a sense of willpower.

What is Willpower?

Willpower means having the ability to take control of your emotions and desires. To have a clearer understanding of willpower, let’s take losing weight as an example. Every year, many people commit themselves to a healthier and fitter lifestyle. When you promised yourself that you’ll stay away from burgers, cakes, chocolates, and all those caloric pleasures, you make every effort to keep your appetite and focus your attention on fruits and vegetables. But the moment you see your friends enjoying their meals, you feel the desire to eat more and forget about your resolution. But because you have self-control, you hold on to your pledge. Instead of going with the flow of your desire, you think of having pineapple juice instead and some refreshing vegetable salad.

Physical Exercises Can Boost Self-Control

On a research conducted by the researchers from Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, it was revealed that small amounts of physical exercise can help people develop their willpower. On the study the respondents were encouraged to join a treatment program that includes exercising. After two months, these individuals showed substantial control over their usual habits. They smoked less, ate less, and procrastinated less. They also showed great improvements on handling their emotions. What’s more surprising is that no one ever forced them to change! On the same study, it was shown that just 15 minutes on a treadmill can already reduce one’s cravings. What more if you will make exercising a regular habit?

Finally, don’t feel bad if you find yourself lighting another cigarette or munching on a chocolate cake. Just follow this rule – mind over matter. Setbacks are normal. You just need to learn how to manage them.