With the new year upon us, resolutions may be on your mind. Have you found how easy they are to make but not as easy to keep? Those who make new year’s resolutions are 10 times more likely to accomplish the changes than those who do not formally make resolutions. By making a resolution, you are taking the first step. Here are some pointers in following through with it successfully.
1. Plan the resolution out in steps, small increments. Rather than say you are going to save money, review your budget and designate a realistic amount of how much you can dedicate to put away. Think of saving money the same as paying bills. When you pay your bills, pay your savings account too. The same concept applies in paying down debt. Define what you want to do, when you will do it and dedicate yourself to making it happen.
2. Seek out support through your family, friends or a group by making goals together and encouraging each other. You can help each other to avoid temptations that are likely to sabotage your progress.
3. Reward yourself when you accomplish small steps. The reward does not have to be expensive or extravagant but something you do not do on regular basis—a small treat.
4. If you slip up, do not be hard on yourself. The plan will not be completely ruined. Look at ways to avoid the problem in the future. Learn from the mistake and move forward.
5. Do not tackle too much at once. Keep on target with your actions. Taking on too much will likely cause you to fail because it becomes overwhelming. As you succeed on one or two, you can add other resolutions.
Many people do not even try to make resolutions because they fear they will fail. If you never try, you will never improve. Resolutions can be made any time of the year. No matter what time of year you make a resolution, keep the above pointers in mind and, ultimately, you will be better for your efforts.
Additional information is available by contacting Janell at the Chouteau County Extension Office at 622-3036, janellb@montana.edu or in the Chouteau County Courthouse at 1308 Franklin St in Fort Benton.
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