Five Tips to make New Year's Resolutions easier
New Year is a time when many people decide to make changes in their lives. The start of a New Year can be a powerful motivational factor with many people adopting an attitude of “out with the old and in with the new”.
In the United Kingdom, common resolutions include losing weight, stopping smoking, spending more time with loved ones, or making physical or mental improvements in our lives. However, many people give up on their resolutions after a short time, either because their expectations are too high, or because they do not have the right support in place.
One problem is that New Year’s resolutions are often large changes and not things that can be achieved quickly. It can be difficult to keep momentum going until that goal is reached. Some of us will persevere and get there through sheer willpower. But why do the rest of us stop somewhere along the way? Research has shown that there are some common mistakes that people make, but the good news is that with a little work we can set ourselves the best chance of success.
John Taylor, a therapist based in North Yorkshire, says: "It is important to set realistic goals when making any type of change. Too often, we want to see immediate results and can become disheartened when they don't materialise. The good news is that, with a little adjustment, we all have it within ourselves to make those positive changes we want to see in life." He recommends five simple tips which can help increase your chances of success:
1) Don't try to change everything at once. Many people start the new year with a long 'shopping list' of changes they want to make. It is far better to focus on one change at a time and give it your full attention. Be realistic in what you can achieve and don't set too many goals
2) Set realistic targets. Instead of trying to climb the mountain in one go, take one step at a time. Recognise the small achievements. You might find it easier to break your goal into smaller targets and can then feel a sense of achievement when you reach these. If you want to lose a few stone in weight, aim for a healthy, maintainable weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds a week instead of hoping to lose it all by the end of January.
3) Set goals that are within your control. Much as it might be great to meet the partner of our dreams or win the lottery, there is a large element of chance in these. Why not focus on the things you can actually change yourself, and be open to opportunities and chances when they arrive?
4) Plan ahead - know how to reach your goals and track your progress. Maybe reorganise your day to make more time for exercise; find a diet or stop-smoking buddy – research has shown that those with a good support network are more likely to succeed.
5) Know when to ask for help. This could be support from friends, families or professionals.
John is offering help to people wanting to make a change in 2016 with a series of free talks throughout January. These take place on Mondays at Craven Clinic in Skipton and on Thursdays at the Wellness Centre in Northallerton
Stopping Smoking with Hypnotherapy - 7th Jan 1.30pm (Northallerton), 11th Jan 1.15pm (Skipton) ,
Weight Loss & Gastric Band Hypnosis -14th Jan 1.30pm (Northallerton), 18th Jan 1.15pm (Skipton),
Overcoming Stress & Anxiety - 21st Jan 1.30pm (Northallerton), 25th Jan 1.15pm (Skipton),
Overcoming Addictive Behaviour - 28th Jan 1.30pm (Northallerton), 1st Feb 1.15pm (Skipton),
Overcoming Fears & Phobias - 4th February 1.30pm (Northallerton), 8th Feb 1.15pm (Skipton)
Anybody who is interested in reserving a place at any of the talks should contact John on 01756 761614 or email john@dalestherapyservices.com
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