6 Ways to Make Your New Year's Resolutions Stick

Almost everyone I know is faced with a similar situation around the beginning of the New Year. People make New Year’s resolutions and then try to keep them. However, after a couple of days and a few meager attempts, New Year’s resolutions go the way of all previous resolutions and flitter away into distant memory.

Neurologists at Los Angeles Spine Surgery state that it’s not just a matter of week will power or a complete lack of self control that is the problem. Rather, it is that people are fighting some hardwired human tendencies developed millions of years ago in our ancestral evolution.

Thus, we have compiled a list of 6 ways to overcome those instinctual weaknesses.

1. Workout your willpower muscle

Evidence shows that willpower works like a muscle. The more you exercise it, the stronger it gets. If you force yourself to do something every day, even if it is something as banal as squeezing your fist until it is uncomfortable, or doing 20 push-ups, the willpower will translate to other areas, like, for instance, quitting smoking.

2. Tackle one challenge at a time.

Like any other muscle, willpower has a limited capacity. That is why psychologists recommend against making too many resolutions. It is easier to follow through with one resolution than with multiple. Don’t try to take on the world. Keep it simple.

3. Break the resolution into mini resolutions.

Some resolutions require multiple sub-resolutions. Make sure you are aware of just how many sub-resolutions are involved. It might be easier to break them down and tackle one at a time. Instead of trying to lose weight, commit to the individual steps, like eating healthy or exercising.

4. Stay Happy

It’s amazing what being in a good mood can do for your resolve. It’s easier to stay positive when you’re happy. Do something to put you in a good mood, like watching a funny movie. When you feel happy, then try and tackle your resolution.

5. Drink your fruits

Self control, which relies on the brain, can be mentally draining, like taking a test. Give your brain plenty of fuel, and keep your mind supplied with the proper sugars.

6. Outsmart yourself

Instead of making impossible decrees, start with things that are not so black and white. Instead of “I’ll never eat sugar”, say, “I’ll only eat sugar on special occasions.