Set small, achievable resolutions
Setting new year’s resolutions can be great, but lots of people aren’t able to keep them because they set unrealistic goals for themselves.
Instead of making a big resolution, try setting a smaller one that you can achieve. You can set a new goal after that to keep you motivated.
If you’re setting a goal, make sure it’s:
- Specific and clear – For example, you could set a goal to go for a walk twice next week instead of just saying that you’ll walk more.
- Measurable – This means that you can see whether you’ve reached your goal yet. For example, a goal of eating 5 fruit and veg a day would be easier to track than just saying that you’ll eat healthier.
- Achievable – It’s better to set small goals you can achieve, than one big on that’s going to be really hard.
- Rewarding or relevant – Make sure it’s something that’s important to you.
- Timed – Setting a goal for the next week or month is better than just trying to change something. Having a deadline can help motivate you as well.
Remember, it’s okay to set a goal and not achieve it. And it's okay to change your goal if it isn't working for you. It can also help to think about what stopped you achieving what you wanted to, so you can set a new goal for the future.
Not sure what resolutions to make? Why not ask other young people on the message boards.