Sometimes we give up after a few months of trying changing ourselves. Then, at the end of another year when we assess ourselves again, we find out that the same things we wanted to change the year before are still the things we hope to change for the year to come. And so the cycle continues. But this does not have to be the case. We can keep our New Year’s resolutions all year round.

The Basics

According to the dictionary, a resolution can mean firmness of determination. It takes 21 days in which to create a new habit. So, if we can be determined to begin a new and better habit in 21 days, then the remaining 344 days of the year will be easier.

There are some facts about New Year’s resolutions that you might want to know. They might inspire you to stick to your resolutions.

According to statistics, the top four New Year’s resolutions are: weight-loss by exercise, weight-loss by developing better eating habits, becoming more involved in work or school and, to stop smoking, drinking or using drugs, including caffeine.

Following the 21-day rule, let us take the weight-loss by exercise for example. Try to jog every morning for 21 days, nonstop, and you will find out that on the 22nd day, jogging will be part of your regular routine.

One important thing, if you want to make your resolutions a success, is changing the way you think. When we make New Year’s resolutions, we have a feeling deep inside that we will not be able to keep them by the end of the first month.

We do not take them seriously, because we do not know very many people who have actually succeeded in keeping their resolutions year round. If you change your mindset and believe in yourself, and believe that you can do it, then the battle is halfway won.

Now that you know you can do it, you have to visualize what you want to achieve. When you have in mind your exact goal then it will be easier to do something about it.

Let us take the weight loss for an example. See yourself at the Christmas ball wearing the sexiest red dress you have ever seen, with its back gaping open and showing your very sexy back; the skirt of the dress just reaching mid-thigh to showcase your toned legs, now honed from months of endless jogging.

Now imagine entering the door and all eyes are focused on you in awe and adoration. The image is so clear you can almost feel it. Now that you saw what it could be like, if you stick with your resolution, there is no going back. You will be determined to achieve your New Year’s resolution.