New Year’s Resolutions: The Time to Start is Now!

Don’t wait until the clock strikes midnight!

As December reaches its midpoint, the excitement for the festive season is palpable. In the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, it’s easy to overlook one crucial aspect of this time of year: New Year’s resolutions. Starting to think about your resolutions now, rather than waiting until the last minute, can greatly increase your chances of success. This thoughtful consideration gives you the time to reflect on the past year and thoughtfully plan for the year to come.

Targeted vs. Broad Resolutions: Finding Your Focus

When setting New Year’s resolutions, we often find ourselves torn between making very targeted resolutions or opting for broader goals. Each approach has its unique benefits and potential drawbacks, depending on what you wish to achieve and your personal style.

1. Targeted Resolutions
   These are specific and measurable goals designed to achieve a distinct outcome. For instance, “Run a marathon by the end of the year” or “Save $5,000 for a vacation.” The clarity of these goals can be incredibly motivating, as they are easy to track and measure. You know exactly what you are working towards and can easily evaluate your progress over time. However, the downside is that these resolutions can sometimes feel restrictive or daunting, especially if the goal is challenging.
2. Broad Resolutions
   On the other hand, broad resolutions are more open-ended, such as “Get healthier” or “Be more financially responsible.” These resolutions allow for flexibility and can accommodate changing circumstances or interests throughout the year. The downside to this approach is that without specific targets, it can be difficult to measure success or stay motivated.

Personality Type and Resolution Success

The effectiveness of each type of resolution can depend heavily on your personality type. If you are someone who thrives on structure and clear objectives, targeted resolutions might be more effective for you. They can provide the focus and drive necessary to achieve specific milestones.

Conversely, if you are a creative or flexible thinker who enjoys exploring new paths and opportunities, broad resolutions might suit you better. They allow for adaptability and innovation, letting you expand your goals as you grow and learn throughout the year.

As we approach the new year, take some time to reflect on what kind of resolutions might suit you best. Whether you choose a targeted or broad goal, what matters most is that your resolutions resonate with you and are achievable. Start thinking about them now, and set the stage for a successful and fulfilling new year.