A brand new year means only one thing! New year, new goals… or in my case, new year, same goals (as I didn’t quite manage to reach them this year!)
Are you one to make new year’s resolutions each year?
Or is it something you don’t bother with?
I generally don’t make new year resolutions until February, for no other reason than it gives me chance to take stock and really think about new year goals that are relevant. And also ensure that I’m not just making resolutions because it’s a new year.
When I was younger, I made them just because I thought I should. Rather than because I really wanted to.
But did you know research has shown that people who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them than those who don’t. A good reason to use my free printable planner pages and stickers, and write down your aspirations for the year.
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What Are the Three Most Common New Year’s Resolutions?
The most common New Year’s resolutions often revolve around personal improvement and well-being. In the past, my new year’s goals have ranged from growing my nails to losing weight. But while it varies and is purely down to the individual, three of the most common new year new goals include:
Lose Weight and Get Fit
Many people set resolutions related to health and fitness, such as losing weight, exercising regularly, or adopting a healthier lifestyle.
This often involves setting goals like going to the gym, eating a balanced diet, or participating in a specific fitness program. Try something new like yoga or pilates, or take up a childhood sport you enjoyed; such as netball or football.
Save Money and Manage Finances
Financial resolutions are also very common. People often aim to save more money, create a budget, pay off debts, or invest for the future. The new year provides an opportunity to assess and improve financial habits.
Improve Mental Health and Well-Being
Enhancing mental health and overall well-being is another popular resolution.
This can involve reducing stress, practicing mindfulness and seeking therapy. Or cultivating positive relationships. People may set goals to prioritize self-care and emotional well-being in the coming year.
How Do you Make New Year Goals?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make meaningful new goals for the new year :
1. Reflect on the Past Year
Take some time to reflect on the past year. Consider your achievements, challenges, and areas where you’d like to see improvement. Reflecting on your experiences can provide valuable insights into what you want to prioritize in the coming year.
2. Identify Your Priorities
Determine the areas of your life that are most important to you. This could include health, career, relationships, and personal development etc. Understanding your priorities will guide you in setting specific and meaningful goals.
3. Set SMART Goals
Use the SMART criteria to create goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
This helps make your goals more concrete and actionable. For example, instead of a vague goal like ‘exercise more,’ a SMART goal could be ‘exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week.’
4. Break Down Larger Goals
If you have big goals, break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks.
This makes it easier to track progress and stay motivated. Achieving smaller milestones along the way can contribute to the overall success of your larger goals.
5. Create a Plan
Develop a clear plan of action for each goal. Outline the specific steps you need to take to achieve them. A well-defined plan can make your goals more achievable and help you stay on track.
6. Consider Potential Set Backs
Anticipate potential obstacles or challenges on your journey to achieving your goals. By identifying these in advance, you can develop strategies to overcome them and stay committed.
7. Be Accountable
Share your goals with a friend, family member, or mentor who can offer support and hold you accountable. Discussing your goals with others can provide motivation and encouragement.
8. Regularly Review and Adjust
Regularly review your progress. This could be on a monthly or quarterly basis. Assess what’s working well and if adjustments are needed. Be flexible and willing to adapt your goals as circumstances change.
9. Celebrate The Small (and Big) Wins
Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. If we recognize and celebrate our achievements along the way, it can really boost our motivation and reinforce positive behaviors.
10. Stay Positive and Persistent
Setbacks may occur, and that’s okay! Stay positive, learn from challenges, and persist in your efforts.
Consistency and resilience are key to achieving long-term goals.
Free Printable Planner Page and Stickers
To help you along with your new year new goals, I’ve created a free printable planner page and stickers. Print out and fill with your resolutions.
And this time next year, let me know if you managed to achieve them!
For more free printables, check out these amazing ideas:
- Extraordinary Chaos, Free Printable Monthly Planner Stickers
- Artsy-Fartsy Mama, Daily Planner Page
- Simple Made Pretty, Weekly Meal Plan Form
- The Quiet Grove, Books on My Shelf Book Tracker
- Like Love Do, New Year’s Resolution Printable
Caro Davies is a former art-director turned writer and content-creator, and editor behind UK lifestyle blog The Listed Home. She writes about home-related topics, from interiors and DIY to food and craft. The Listed Home has been featured in various publications, including Ideal Home, Grazia, and Homes & Antiques magazines.
