DiversiD Diaries Issue 3

NEW YEAR.... NEW YOU....Or not?

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, many of us dive into the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. Whether it’s pledging to hit the gym, eat healthier, or finally tackle that long-overdue project, resolutions have long been a symbol of new beginnings. But how often do these resolutions stick? I know mine don’t!

If you’ve ever felt like your New Year’s resolutions were abandoned by February, you’re not alone. That’s where New Year’s goals come in as a more structured and achievable alternative. Let’s explore the differences between resolutions and goals, and how to set yourself up for success in the year ahead.

What Are New Year’s Resolutions? Resolutions are declarations of intent, often focused on breaking bad habits or starting new ones. They tend to be broad and idealistic, such as:

· I will exercise more

· I will eat healthier.

· I will save money.

While resolutions are well-meaning, they often lack specificity or a clear plan for execution. This vagueness can make them harder to stick to, especially when life gets busy or motivation wanes.

What Are New Year’s Goals?

Goals, on the other hand, are actionable, measurable, and often tied to a specific timeline. Instead of a vague intention, a goal outlines exactly what you want to achieve and how you plan to get there. For example:

· I will go to the gym three times a week for 30 minutes.

· I will meal prep on Sundays to ensure healthy lunches.

· I will save £50 from each paycheck for my emergency fund.

By breaking down aspirations into smaller, actionable steps, goals provide a roadmap to success and are more likely to keep you accountable.

Key Differences Between Resolutions and Goals

Area Resolutions Goals

Focus Broad Intention Specific actionable steps

Structure Vague or unidentified Measurable and time-bound

Mindset Idealistic, all-or-nothing Realistic, progress-oriented

Success Rate Often abandoned early Higher, due to clarity and planning

Why Goals Work Better Than Resolutions

1. Clarity: Goals are precise, making it easier to track progress.

2. Motivation: Small wins along the way keep you motivated.

3. Flexibility: Goals can be adjusted as circumstances change.

4. Accountability: With measurable steps, it’s easier to stay on track.

How to Set Effective New Year’s Goals

1. Use the SMART Framework: - Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve. - Measurable: Include a way to track your progress. - Achievable: Set realistic targets within your capacity. - Relevant: Align your goals with your values and priorities. - Time-bound: Set a deadline or timeframe for completion.

2. Break It Down: Divide your larger goal into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, if your goal is to read 12 books this year, aim for one book per month.

3. Celebrate Progress: Recognise and reward yourself for milestones along the way to stay motivated.

4. Be Kind to Yourself: Life happens, and setbacks are normal. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Resolutions and Goals: Can They Work Together?

Resolutions and goals don’t have to be mutually exclusive. A resolution can be your overarching intention, while goals break it down into achievable steps. For example: - Resolution: “I want to prioritise my health this year.” - Goals: 1. “Exercise three times a week.” 2. “Drink 2 litres of water daily.” 3. “Get 7-8 hours of sleep each night.”

 By pairing the two, you can honour the spirit of a resolution while giving yourself a practical way to achieve it.

Whether you prefer resolutions or goals, the most important thing is to focus on what works best for you. The New Year is an opportunity to reflect, reset, and create intentions for growth. By setting clear, actionable goals, you can turn your aspirations into achievements and make this year one of meaningful progress.

So, are you ready to trade vague resolutions for purposeful goals? Start small, stay consistent, and remember: every step forward is a step towards success.