Stop Making New Year’s Resolutions

This post isn’t hating on anybody — especially people who continuously set and track goals in all aspects of their lives. But it’s a reminder that New Years Resolutions go nowhere if you’re simply choosing one just because it’s New Year’s and everybody’s sharing theirs.

Goals need to be set throughout the year. Personally, 365 days can be filled with so many phases, cycles, events and changes that it’s a blur when December comes around. (“Did that really happen this year?!” or “Are you sure it’s only been 3 months?”). Whether your resolutions are for your health or your business, in many cases a 2 — 4 month goal can be so much more effective, rather than reflecting 12 months later.

Who’s to say January 1st is even the best time to start? Beyond the calendar year, think corporate year-ends, school-years, sports seasons, semesters and other measures of time. It has to be based on a timeline and circumstances that set you up for success.

And for those you may notice using the New Year coming as an excuse to put things off, I say this:

The worst thing you can do is consciously continue a negative routine or avoid taking action simply because you’re “going to start in the new year.”

A new year is exciting, and if it’s the kick you need to get going (again, or starting fresh), and you have a plan you’ll stick to, awesome!

I’m looking forward to launching some new projects this year, including a YouTube network. But not because it’s the new year — because it’s time! And I’ll continue to work out most days in 2016, but with some specific gym goals and meals I’ve been planning regardless of the date changeover.

Nobody can truly hold you accountable or be responsible for your success — it has to come from you in the end.

Did you keep the resolution you set last year for yourself? What has changed, or improved? I leave you with this:

Wishing you the best in your health and business endeavors in 2016.