Deciding to make a change in your life is not the end of the change process, it is merely the beginning. Committing to make a change, and following through on that commitment, is the next step you must take to be successful.
If your resolution for the New Year happens to be to reduce stress in your life, for example, failing to do so will actually increase the stress you feel. This is not good and, in fact, is counter-productive.
Resolving to make a change
Real change requires a plan
Don’t set yourself up for failure, but for success. Think it through and develop a plan for successful change. Don’t be shy; ask friends and family to help you. Commit to success.
- Define the problem
- Choose a solution
- Develop a strategy
- Ask for help
- Be ready to start over
Know your true goal
Accurately defining the problem you wish to resolve is critical to your success when you make a change in your life. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by side issues. Keep the big goal in site and resolve to reach that goal, and only that goal. The rest will take care of itself.
Be realistic
Make sure the solution you choose will actually work for you, and that it is achievable. Again you don’t want to set yourself up for failure. Ask for advice, if you need it, and heed it.
Make a plan
And follow it diligently. It matters not how long or short the road to your goal may be, the only way to reach the end of it is to follow the right directions, the directions you devise.
Encourage accountability
A support system is critical to success in the change process. Find another whom you trust and respect who will hold you accountable for your actions. Change is a process, and we often need help to stay on track.
Accept that you may fail
Getting knocked down from time to time is not what defines you. Getting up again is. Don’t let a small failure along the way prevent you from reaching your goal. If you should “fall off the wagon” along the road to your new goal, resolve to try again. It’s just that easy.
If you decide you need help to make a change and reach your goals for the New Year, Integrity Counseling Services would love to help you become an agent for change.
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