Having resolutions past the second week of January can sometimes be as hard as creating and sticking to a financial budget. For some of us, whether it be losing ten pounds, finishing the Business Plan that’s still in draft form or saving enough money to take a much needed trip, gets lost in the shuffle of our daily routine. Why is it we can’t seem to maintain our year long goals? We write them down and some of us go to the extent of creating vision boards, so what are we doing wrong?
Well, maybe we’re not doing anything wrong. Maybe we just need a different inspirational avenue. For 2012, I suggest we jump beyond our electronic reminders and color coded post-its to try a more personal method.
In considering how to successfully accomplish our resolutions, we often forget the power of friends as a motivational resource. Our friends can provide the extra encouragement needed to get through the three week mark after the ball drops and our daily routine seeks to compete. Why not engage in a buddy system where you can each set goals and do a monthly check in to monitor your progress. Together, you can examine and discuss where you’re falling short and give needed praise when there’s success. You can even offer a personal resolution you would like your friend to work towards and allow them to do the same for you.
Each year we put such great emphasis on progressing ourselves, whether it’s in our finances, health, relationships, or career. This year let’s strive to obtain the happiness and success we seek by encouraging our friends and family to obtain the same. Maybe then we will finally acquire the drive to uphold the resolutions we make.
Briana Haymon
Spelman College
