1 min read

Embracing Imperfection: How to Make Resolutions You’ll Keep

December 27, 2017

New Year, same you? The new year is a blank canvas on which we like to build fantasy versions of our future selves. We make resolutions with the best of intentions, and subsequently break them faster than you can say ‘I’d like to cancel my gym membership’.

More than 80% of New Year’s resolutions are abandoned by February.

Why? Because we are setting ourselves up for failure with resolutions that are unrealistic, impractical, and too broad. So before you attempt 12 months of self-inflicted torture without a carb or a cocktail in sight, try re-adjusting your expectations. Be honest with yourself, and make a new year’s resolution list that’s doable. And remember, perfection is impossible! Here are a few of the most common resolutions, and ideas of how to re-frame them into smaller, more sustainable lifestyle changes.

Instead of: I’m going to spend more time on wellbeing.

Try: I’m going to add 5 minutes of meditation into my morning routine to become a more mindful person.

Being more wellness-focused is great, but what does that even mean? You won’t just wake up January 2nd as Shailene Woodley… you have to take baby steps! By setting a specific goal that’s easy to incorporate into your daily life, you’re more likely to stick with it.

Instead of: I’m going to exercise every day.

Try: I’m going to commit to working out 2-3 times per week.

If your main form of exercise is walking from your desk to the coffee machine, committing to working out every day is not an ideal place to start your fitness journey. Instead, ease yourself into it by hitting the gym after work a few times a week, or going for a morning run every weekend. Once working out is a regular part of your lifestyle, you can build toward fitspo status.

Instead of: I’m going to eat healthier.

Try: I’m going to eat at least 2 pieces of fruit a day and make sure I drink enough water.

Blanket statements rarely make successful resolutions. You can convince yourself that just about anything is healthy - ‘This bag of potato chips is gluten-free! It’s healthy.’ Give yourself specific guidelines that are easy to follow and will make a notable impact.

Instead of: I’m going to stop drinking/eating meat/other.

Try: I’m going to limit alcohol/meat/other to certain special occasions.

While we wholeheartedly support your desire to live a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle, giving up a vice cold turkey is always easier said than done. Life is all about balance, so remember to indulge yourself from time to time.