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Should I Make Resolutions, Set Goals, Or Build Positive Habits?
A new start. A fresh beginning. Time to turn the page. Whatever words you use to describe the ushering in of a new year, it’s that time again — Happy New Year! A time when many people focus on making positive changes in their lives.
Do you make New Year’s resolutions? Have you shifted to building good habits rather than making resolutions or setting goals?
If you are ready to make changes in the new year, what should you do? You know many people give up on the resolutions they make within a few weeks — if not sooner! But are habits specific enough to make the changes you want or does goal setting make the most sense?
Let’s take a further look at each of these terms. We’ll review their meaning (according to the Cambridge Dictionary), the advantages and disadvantages of each, and whether the word itself matters when you really want to make changes in your life.
Resolutions
A resolution is promising yourself to do something. Common New Year’s resolutions include positive changes such as eating healthier, exercising more, quitting smoking, saving more money, sleeping more, spending more time with family and friends, reducing stress, and learning something new.