So, we are coming to the end of February …. how are your New Year’s Resolutions coming along?  Are you making daily progress, or are you like the majority of folks that commit to a few important goals on January 1st and abandon them out of frustration by the end of the month?

Well, if you’re having trouble sticking to your commitments, I have a simple suggestion that may help you get back on track.

This simple little shift made all the difference for me.  Instead of resolving to not do this or that, which is how many people frame their New Year’s Resolutions, commit instead to a new habit that will replace the old behavior.  Or, put something in your way to make sure you follow through on a new behavior you’ve committed to.

For instance:

- Instead of quitting smoking and wandering the halls of your home or workplace trying not to think about cigarettes, replace the smoking habit with a healthy one like walking, running or biking.  This will improve your health and help get your mind off the old negative habit.

- Instead of simply planning on running three times per week for the New Year, be sure and put your running shoes in front of your door so there is no way to miss them or ‘forget’ to run!

- If managing your time better is one of your New Year’s Resolutions, be sure to write out your 5-6 most important tasks for the day the night before and place the list with your keys or wallet/purse.  This way you’ll be ready to go the next morning and know exactly what you’ll be doing to make it a productive day. (for more tips on this subject be sure to read my time management post)

By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to getting on track and making your New Year’s Resolutions a reality.

All the best,
- Scott