Life

Every year I make resolutions, and every year I break them. How can I increase my chances of really making a change?

Deborah F. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, so we borrowed Life Coach Carly Cooper from SweetMama, and asked her to answer;

It seems like keeping New Year’s resolutions has become as unsuccessful as trying to fit double D’s into a training bra. We have the right idea, but we’re going about it the wrong way. Here are 10 tips to make sure that 2010 is the year that we make lasting changes.

1. Set realistic goals. Break down your goals into small, doable chunks.
2. Make changes for the right reasons. To be sure your intentions are in the right place, make a list of the pros and cons of achieving your resolution. If the cons outweigh the pros you need to rethink what you’re doing and why.
3. Pick a resolution that means something to you. The more positive energy and excitement you can put toward your resolution, the more likely you are to succeed.
4. Reward yourself for small achievements along the way. However, keep your rewards in line with your goals. It would be futile to celebrate a sugar-free week by having an unhealthy meal that could sabotage your progress.
5. Visualize the end result. Create a vision board with your end result. Cut out pictures, words, quotes or whatever else motivates you and stick it in a place where you can see it daily.
6. Make a plan ahead of time. Waiting until five minutes before the ball drops when you’re full of wine coolers and food loaded with Trans fats is not the best time to make your resolutions. With a clear head, think about what you want to change and map out a plan of action.
7. Find support. Whether it’s a friend, co-worker, group or coach, tell someone who motivates you what your plan is. Not only will they hold you accountable, they’ll also encourage you to keep going.
8. Tell everyone you know. Once you put it out there, you’re more likely to make it happen. Getting the “I told you so” look is far worse than the actual symptoms of withdrawal.
9. Reinvest in yourself. Find a new behaviour to replace your old behaviour. When you keep yourself busy and fulfilled in positive ways, your old habits will become a thing of the past.
10. Be kind to yourself. Use encouraging words. Be patient and forgiving if you get derailed. This is a process and if you’re going to make lasting, lifestyle changes, you need to be your number one fan. No matter what.

Carly Cooper is a certified Life Coach for Moms and creator of

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