Change.
In one way it is the hardest verb to accomplish.
In another way, it is impossible to live without it having its way with me.
It’s almost that time of the year when friends – and even some strangers – might ask, “What New Year’s Resolutions did you make?”
Resolutions are all about Change.
If you’re like me, you wait until December 31 – or later – to think about the expected list.
And, if you’re like me, you don’t feel like telling others what you resolved.
After all, what if the change doesn’t happen?
Or, doesn’t last?
Embarrassing, isn’t it?
Public knowledge of a failed resolution is like a gut punch.
Here’s my Challenge to you (and me)…
Let’s get a headstart on the process!
What one habit would you like to change?
What would you substitute for that habit?
Make the resolution state the positive.
Like this…
I know I don’t exercise enough.
Mowing the yard is about the only real exercise I get. But I know that regular exercise is beneficial. Still, I can’t mow the yard every day.
And the generic “I will exercise more!” is unlikely to make the change happen.
Too general. Too easily compromised.
“I will walk around the block every day.” is a little better.
Specific activity. Too general as to time, though.
Every morning (except Sabbath) I will walk around the block before breakfast.
Specific activity. Specific frequency. Specific schedule.
Now, when a friend asks about my New Year’s Resolutions I can answer. Probably with “Exercise more.” But I know.
And I can easily measure my progress – and consistency.
Don’t fall into the trap of creating a list of resolutions.
The longer the list the easier it is to abandon one or two. If I hit a couple, I can feel OK about my resolution.
It takes about a month of consistent repetition to create a habit.
Automaticity is the goal.
Create your goal and plan and execution so that you feel “something’s missing” when you miss a morning.
Don’t wait until New Year’s Eve!
In fact, you might start a new Christmas Morning Family Tradition.
Everyone shares a goal.
“This year I will work on myself to (change)…” Then state the positive improvement.
Like this…
“This year I will work on myself so that Every morning (except Sabbath) I will walk around the block before breakfast.”
Wondering what to put on your list?
Bible study (Sabbath School Lessons)
Exercise
Verbalize more thankfulness
Listen to Classical Music for 15 minutes
Clean up the kitchen after a meal (if that isn’t already a chore)
Work on a hobby instead of watch TV
Practice my music instrument
Take an on-line course
Learn to _______________
Volunteer at ____________
It’s best if the change is measurable.
Get a calendar that hangs on the wall so you can mark off the successes.
Don’t just put a check mark of X on the date, Write an affirmative, such as “Walked Today.”
If your family agrees to be supportive, tell each other about your successes.
It will reinforce your resolve if you can have a ‘Coach’ who encourages and praises you.
Of course, you will benefit greatly by being an Encourager Coach to someone else, either inside your family or out.
As you are beginning this adventure, it is important that you give and receive coaching contact every day. In person or on the phone.
Get a Composition Notebook and keep a record – a Journal or Memoir.
3-Step Process
1. Resolution for change (written)
2. Encourager – Coach
3. Journal
If you will do these – You will experience Change-Success.
Start now.
Comments are of great encouragement to the writer of this blog.
Merry Christmas!
