…(And it’s only a week into 2016)

The first step is not to panic/give up/have an existential crisis, you haven’t failed. It’s only been a week, and maybe you are trying to do something you have never done before, which is really hard. So give yourself a break. It is commendable that you have decided to make changes (most likely positive) to your life, and you should give yourself a pat on the back for that. Have your feelings of panic been eased? Great, let’s move on to the second step.

The second step is to take your existing resolutions/goals/habits whatever you want to call them and rework them. Right now maybe they are a little out of focus, but a few adjustments and there! They are crystal clear. If you are unsure about how to turn your resolutions into something more formed I have provided you with a few suggestions below.

• Make them pretty – Looks aren’t everything for sure, but let’s be real: if your resolutions are just a list in 14-point Comic Sans then you probably won’t like looking at them, let alone doing them. This year I spent a lot of time writing and illustrating my resolutions by hand. I’m super happy with the way they turned out, and it gives me a thrill whenever I see them.
• Make them SMART – This will help your goals become more specific and realistic and therefore achievable! Look at the graphic below to find out what the acronym stands for and also questions to ask yourself when making your new resolutions. (Pro-tip: SMART goals aren’t just for resolutions, use them for whenever you need to Get Stuff Done).

• Record your progress – In my journal that I made my beautiful resolutions in, I also left several blank pages to record my progress and what I am doing to achieve each resolution.
• Make a plan – Even if it’s just a list of ideas or a mind map or a link to a workout video. Give yourself something to start with and build from it. I’m also using that blank space to come up with a rough plan for each resolution.
• Make yourself accountable – Whether it’s to a few friends or the whole world via social media, explain what your resolutions are and then show people what you are doing to achieve it.

I hope these tips help you fulfill all your resolutions, and remember don’t give up. Resolutions are not meant to be completed in the first month of the year, it’s a process that’s intended to last a full year. So be SMART, have a plan, and go out have a great year!