I know I am odd, but I love New Year’s resolutions. I am filled with excitement over the prospect of a new challenge, and I am eager to encounter the tenacity that I know it will take to be successful. It’s those kinds of victories that can, in the future, be an encouragement during a rough season. That may sound very idealistic, but if we pause and change the way we view resolutions, I think this could be the year that we see a marked difference in our own life.
The reason so many resolutions fail is that they are simply behavior modifications, and they are not reflective of a real change of heart. The reason why the contestants on the “Biggest Loser” are challenged to face their histories and confront their emotions is not just because it makes good television. The fact is that the trainers know that diet and exercise plans will only help so much, and that if the person doesn’t have a change of heart about their behavior, and face the deeper thoughts behind their actions, they will most likely fail.
As part of the magnificent human race, we do have to accept our flawed thinking which produces our undesired actions. Yet reflection on those flaws can bring about resolutions to move us past them once and for all. The plan of how to get to that goal is not the important part; it’s the heart and the motivation behind the plan that really determines the success of your resolution.
This year, whether you want to lose weight, quit overspending, work harder, or whatever it may be, stop yourself before you make any personal promises. Before you even make a plan, think about why you really want to change something. Is it just for fun? Because someone tells you that you should? Or is it because you truly know this is what is best for you to have the most joyful life possible?
Determine where your heart and mind stand, and use that as a guide to write down your resolution and your plan of attack. Be specific, and find someone you trust to hold you accountable. It is easier to be successful together than it is alone, so see if you know anyone else who shares your desire, and join forces in your adventure.
Lastly, smile! Resolutions are a tradition that too often just ends in failure that we beat ourselves up over. Approach it differently this year, with a positive outlook that is rooted in your deepest reflections, and this can be the time you look back next year and grin, “I did it!”
Rochester Resident, Heidi Morris
About Heidi Morris