Happy New Year from The RED Team!
It’s that time of year again! Many of us will spend these next few days looking back over the past year and looking forward to the year ahead. This time of reflection can sometimes discourage us, but we hope and pray you are encouraged to not dwell on any mistake you’ve made, but choose TODAY to make lasting changes in your life!
Take some time to consider the following questions as you decide on New Year’s “resolutions” or “goals” for 2018. It is our hope that these questions will push you towards actually accomplishing your wants and desires for the New Year!
1. Why do you want to make the change? Really getting down to the root of why you want to make a change makes a BIG difference. If you want to lose weight in order to 1.) be more active and involved in your children’s lives, 2.) improve your health so you feel better and avoid illness, and 3.) so you can travel with ease to that destination on your bucket list, then this might be that extra boost to consistently go to the gym and keep a healthy, well-rounded diet.
2. Make a plan. Do you really think high achievers wake up each morning without a plan in place to accomplish their goals? Of course not! We believe the wise saying of Benjamin Franklin: “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” Take a moment to jot down or type up a game plan, then post it somewhere for you and your family to see on a regular basis. Also, be sure to make it realistic, simple, and precise.
3. Gather those around you who will keep you accountable. This is probably where people fail the most. If you do not have a good support system that’s aware of your goals for the New Year, chances are you will begin to make excuses and no one will be there to help you push through the tougher times. Grab a close friend or your spouse and schedule a time to sit down a go through your goals with them. Having an accountability partner can make a world of difference!
4. Celebrate your victories well! Nothing’s better than having a grand prize waiting for you at the finish line! Clearly spelling out how you intend to celebrate can also be a driving force to encourage consistency.
We sincerely hope 2018 is your best year yet and that you see positive, lasting changes in your life. May you and your family have a safe and joy-filled New Year!