New Year’s resolutions: Just say no

Tomorrow’s the day. The day when a fresh start has never seemed more imminent … or possible. The day when, fueled by friends, fun and perhaps a bit of alcohol, you believe that you truly can make that huge resolution stick this year.

So, umm, how’s that been working for you?

If you’re like most of us, probably not too well. It seems promising; you really do mean to follow through. But it’s too much, too big, and, most importantly, not backed by any solid foundation — a plan, goals, support, accountability.

That’s why my plea is for you not to make one single resolution this year. Yes, really!

Do I believe in change? Definitely. Do I believe in setting goals? Of course. But do it in a way that you can experience success. More failure — another resolution swept under the rug — is only going to make you feel bad about your good intentions. How does that help?

My New Year’s toast to you: No resolutions!

Then, when you’re ready to embrace change, do so. Use SMART as your acronym to set goals that will have a chance of seeing the finish line. In other words, make sure what you want to achieve meets these criteria: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound. Then you’ll have a real chance of not needing or wanting to make resolutions at the end of next year!