the power of resolutions
holding yourself accountable in 2024
Witnessing friends, family, and loved ones create vision boards, lists of goals, and resolutions at the end of each year is awe-inspiring. The mere notion that people are reflecting, planning, and pursuing - reignites a flame within me that at times, after enough hard-fought battles across a twelve-month epoch, can get too stagnant for my liking. When the topic of favorite holidays gets traded across rooms, I always list New Year’s Eve at the top. Why? The mark of a new year can be an ultimate reset button, and I consider reset buttons vital for my goals, successes, and in some cases, even my livelihood.
Periodical resets are significant for me because it’s during my most uncomfortable and stormy seasons where trials and tribulations seem ceaseless, that the most extraordinary versions of myself are born. And yes, version(s) plural, because the person writing to you now was a completely different person than the one that would’ve attempted to write this back in July. Therefore, in the spirit of evolving into better versions of ourselves, I jotted down some thoughts regarding the most successful practices that I’ve either implemented or have read or heard about, that are most interesting to me. What’s the strongest, most crucial component to getting that new promotion, losing weight, saving for that house, or booking that trip to that country you’ve always dreamed about visiting? Scroll down and find out.
accountability
The most significant component when reflecting is accountability. Telling yourself the truth can free you from the grasp of that old version of yourself that either postponed or didn’t accomplish those goals you initially wrote down at the beginning of previous years. Being accountable for yourself is comprehending that you have the lion’s share of a say in your life. Meaning, that if your job leaves you with an unfulfilled feeling or a relationship, seems like it's not serving you how you want to be served, or that you simply need to start being happier and healthier mentally, spiritually, and physically, you have absolute control over doing something about it, or not. It is fully your responsibility - and no one else’s.
How do we stay accountable? There are a few ways - one is to tell someone you trust about your goals. Whether it be your significant other, your best friend, or your workout group at the gym. Studies show that people who not only write their goals but set up a way to be accountable for them will be twice as likely to achieve them. In addition, you can stay accountable by not only writing down the things you wish for, or the things you say you’re going to do but keeping track of your daily activities and habits. Whether it be digitally through an app such as MyFitnessPal where you’re logging meals daily and working toward your dietary goals, or the Nike Run App, if let’s say one of your fitness goals is to participate (and crush) a 5K this year. My absolute favorite way of holding myself accountable is a perfect segway into the next section. Journaling.
write it down
According to research by the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University, researchers suggest that “only 9% of Americans that make resolutions complete them. Research goes on to show that 23% of people quit their resolution by the end of the first week, and 43% quit by the end of January.” Common themes of non-accomplished goals and resolutions written down at the beginning of the year for many people include a lack of accountability and unexpected obstacles, which can then lead to a major lack of motivation to accomplish your list of goals. Two components that have personally helped me stick to my words and intentions are journaling, and, ironically, a smaller list of goals that, when written down - look more like habits.
I wish that I never stopped journaling after grade school. I remember my 4th-grade teacher Mr. Pasculi used to nag our entire class about the importance of journaling, and how one day “when we’re older” we’d appreciate seeing our thoughts on paper during our younger years. At the time, we’d often greet those words with rolling eyes or frowns, yearning for the bell to ring so that recess could begin. Man, what I would give to see my 4th-grade journal right now. Especially since it's intriguing to me just reading my journal entries from a year ago. Heck, even months ago.
Journaling, combined with a small list of healthier habits, helps me stay close to a routine by familiarizing myself with what I’m doing, why I’m doing it, and how it’s going on a daily or weekly basis. When it comes to my goals, reading entries where I voice nervousness or excitement leading up to the triumphant moment, is always eerie to read most positively. I often find myself smiling down at my journal like a lunatic, mad at myself for even doubting myself, which is silly cause we’re only human. As for the list of smaller habits, this has been helpful for me in the sense that it creates a healthier lifestyle, which naturally - will bring you closer to your goals and the best version of yourself through sheer will and universal/divine attraction. Meaning, rather than write down “lose 15 pounds” - I instead wrote down exactly how I’m going to do so. “Run a 5K 3 times this week”, or “spend at least one hour per day in nature, 5 days a week”. Lo and behold, after committing those actions consistently for 3 weeks - sure enough, those 15 pounds were gone. For me I think simply seeing the actions written down on paper - in turn, puts it into the universe that I yearn for this thing to happen, and then reading it the next day and reflecting on how it went, keeps me going - keeps the fire burning.
practice gratitude
In the pursuit of self-improvement and the realization of your goals, there exists a subtle yet transformative force that often goes overlooked - gratitude. As we navigate the complexities of life and strive for personal and professional triumphs, expressing gratitude becomes an invaluable practice that can shape our mindset throughout our journey.
When we express gratitude, we redirect our focus from what is lacking to what has been gained, seeding a positive perspective that fuels our determination. And in the quest for accountability, practicing gratitude serves as a constant reminder to acknowledge the efforts we've invested, the hurdles we've overcome, and the lessons we've learned along the way. Go ahead - celebrate those small wins and hug yourself for all that you’ve overcome. Take a moment each day to reflect on the aspects of your life for which you are grateful. And if on that list of things you’re grateful for, you name a few people - don’t forget to let them know. Share your appreciation for the support you’re receiving along the way, and acknowledge the contributions of others on similar paths. Gratitude contains a ripple effect of positivity.
As we venture into 2024 with renewed determination, let gratitude be the cornerstone of our endeavors. Let it be the concluding note in the symphony of self-improvement, echoing the strength derived from embracing challenges, celebrating victories, and recognizing the abundant blessings that surround us. In doing so, we’ll not only honor our journey but pave the way for a future adorned with achievements, fulfillment, and an enduring sense of accountability. Here's to a year filled with growth, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to becoming the best version of yourself.
