Why Do New Year’s Resolutions Fail?

January 24th, 2012

Have you ever heard the expression “How do you eat an elephant”? I’ll have the answer for you at the end of my blog…but for now I thought I would take this time to explore the 3 most popular New Year’s resolutions, why they fail, and a few tips the help keep you on track! The key to resolving any issue in our lives is to first determine the underlying cause. Losing weight, eating healthy and saving money are the top 3 resolutions made each year…and all three of them have one thing in common. Bad habits.

Losing weight is an admirable resolution, however have you ever wondered how the pounds got there in the first place? Bad habit #1 is eating on the go, in front of the TV, computer, or other multi-tasking endeavor. If we consume food while doing other things, our brain does not get the signal that we are full, and we will be hungry again in a matter of hours. Try sitting down at an area where there are no distractions (magazines, cell phones and newspapers are included) to enjoy your next meal. Next; try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, park in a more remote area rather than driving in circles to find the closest parking spot, gather a group of friends and walk during your breaks. The extra exercise will increase blood flow and help you feel invigorated…leading to even more productivity!

Eating healthy is always a good idea, but shopping for the right foods can be exhausting and expensive! Bad habit #2 is falling into the ‘familiar is easier’ trap. Try to veer off from the items that are placed at eye level. Make yourself explore the shelves before committing to an item. (You can always put it back…though we rarely do) If you have small children, trade babysitting services with a friend…fewer distractions will allow you to focus on your shopping.

Why can’t we save money? We live in an immediate gratification society. Bad habit #3 is getting caught in the credit card trap. Instead of credit cards, try making yourself save some money out of your next 2-3 paychecks. Start with something small…a $60 item perhaps. Don’t buy it on credit…pay for it in full when you’ve saved up the dough! As old fashioned as it sounds, waiting for something you want can help you appreciate it even more!

So, how DO you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! New Year’s resolutions fail, because we try to eat the whole elephant. Try these little bite sized tips and get your New Year’s resolution back on track!