Mississauga Real Estate by Theresa Baird

A new year signifies new goals, new challenges and new beginnings. It’s a time for

reflection, but it is also time to plan ahead for a better year.

Each year Canadians resolve to make the New Year better than the last with a list of

resolutions. Everyone can make a New Year’s resolution, but we all know that the hard part

is keeping it. Use these tips to help you stay on track well into 2011.

1. Write your resolutions down and think long term

Writing out goals makes them seem more official. Take the time to really plan out

resolutions and add in specific details you can work toward and use as milestones. Be

realistic about the number of resolutions you write down. If you have too many, or if

they are too aggressive, you could derail yourself before you even begin. Think about

your resolutions in terms of the whole year, too, not just this month or this week.

Having long and short term goals will help you to stay motivated and keep on track

long after the New Year’s confetti is gone.

2. Find a New Year’s resolution buddy

Having someone to lean on during challenging times, share stories with and celebrate

successes with can make a big difference in keeping New Year’s resolutions.

3. Plan ahead

Take the guesswork out of New Year’s resolutions by planning ahead to ensure you

meet your goals. For instance, if your resolution is weight management, plan the

week’s meals ahead of time or build your own custom meal plan using online meal

planners. Or, consider following an existing plan such as the Special K Challenge or

Jenny Craig.

4. Keep up the good work

Experts say it takes about 3 weeks for something, such as exercising, to become a

habit and 6 months for it to become part of your personality. Sticking to your goals

will get easier over time and eventually, your good habits will become part of your

regular routine.

5. Reward yourself and don’t give up

Be sure to celebrate successes and milestones along the way, and if you fall off the

wagon, pick yourself up, recommit to your goals and keep going. It doesn’t have to be

January 1st to start working on being the best person you can be.