Goodbye 2020, Hello 2021

Written by a F.A.B.U Contributor

Even though we're still in the middle of a pandemic and will be for the next little while, it's time to start putting 2020 behind us and to start looking ahead at a brand new year with a fresh start.

At the beginning of a new year, many people set New Year's Resolutions for themselves. It's a tale as old as time. People set up big things for themselves, but by the end of January, they've already broken them.  
You might know people (or yourself) that promise to start living a healthier life by starting a workout routine or cutting sugar out of their diet, but give up a few weeks into it.

You see, the key to creating your goals for the year and keeping your "New Year's Resolutions"  is to make them realistic and I can't stress that enough. A majority of the time, people put unrealistic expectations in place when creating their resolutions.  
When you start creating goals for the new year, make sure it's something you can quickly achieve and work towards.

Remember, it's the small victories that matter, after all.

For example, if you want to be more active, start small.

Instead of dedicating yourself to an hour-long workout routine, why not start with finding 15 to 30 minutes a day? Start small so this way, you can push yourself to do more extended amounts of exercise when you're ready. It also doesn't have to be strenuous physical activity. Your goal could be to walk more. 

Find something you like doing and keep pushing yourself little by little.

Not only should your goals be realistic, but they should also be achievable.

Set realistic timelines for yourself.  
Think about what you hope to achieve by the end of each month or by the end of the year as a whole.

For example, if you're starting a new hobby, don't expect yourself to be a professional in a week.  Make sure you give yourself some time, and again, be realistic. 
 
Examples might look like this:
I want to be able to cook two new meals by February.
I want to learn at least three songs on the piano by the end of July.
I want to lose 10 pounds and keep it off by the end of 2021.  

Another great way to keep a resolution is to continue doing something you're already doing.

For example, if you haven't tried smoking, your resolution could be not to start smoking.  If you already go to the gym every day, your resolution can be to continue your workout routine.  It's as simple as that.

Try to have fun with your New Year Resolutions. 
Make a list of a couple of books you want to read by the end of 2021.  
If you're not a reader, your resolution may be to read at least ONE book by the end of the year.
Make a list of movies or TV shows you've been putting off that you need to watch before the year is done.

When you complete goals, you give yourself a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.  Don't give yourself resolutions that are too difficult or not specific enough.  Like I mentioned already, it's the small victories that matter.  Don't make them too big or daunting.

When making your New Year’s Resolutions, make them realistic and as easy as possible; that way, you can succeed at achieving them.

Happy New Year from all of us at FABU!