Every January millions make new year’s resolutions. The top ones include lose weight, quit smoking, use money more wisely, and spend more time with friends. Unfortunately, 50% never keep their resolution for more than 6 months and only 10% make it through the year.
So, should we avoid setting resolutions (goals) for the new year because we might fail? I don’t think so. As the new year begins, it is a great time to evaluate your life and look ahead. Here’s what I suggest.
6 tips to help you keep your resolutions:
- Specifically state what you want to do (ie, read through the Bible in a year).
- Really want it. Is it in your gut? Have you decided that you just can’t continue down the same path any longer? Are you really serious?
- Believe God wants it for you. He wants you to move forward in your faith and in your life. He is on your side. He is on your team. 2 Peter 1.3 tells us, By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. (NLT)
- Put real effort into keeping your resolution/goal. God wants you to partner with him and put your heart into God prompted resolutions. New birth does not rule out human activity. 2 Peter 1.5 says, … make every effort to respond to God’s promises. (NLT)
- Break down your goal into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Enlist help. Ask a trusted friend to periodically check on your progress.
If you apply these simple steps, keeping a new year’s resolution won’t seem so daunting.