As we rang in the New Year for 2022, we declared, “No More Resolutions!”
It’s that time of year when the collective talks about resolutions. Instead, we are offering a slightly different perspective on New Year’s Resolutions. And a tip on how to actually create lasting change.
Why Resolutions Often “Fail.”
In the next couple of paragraphs, we will discuss why resolutions often fail. Additionally, we will also give an example of steps you can engage to move towards a goal.
First, think about any resolutions you made this year or ones you created in the past. Were they more broad, general ideas, or were they specific with a plan?
In Psychology, we use the term “behavioral prescriptions” to describe specific behaviors or steps we can engage in to move towards a goal.
One example if the goal was to learn how to ballroom dance, the specific steps might include:
1) Researching local dance studios;
2) Signing up;
3) Attending the classes regularly; and,
4) Making time to practice 1-2 days a week outside of class.
The next thing to consider is that individuals often give up before the new behaviors (thoughts or actions) have been solidified in the brain. That “solidification” is through the process of neuroplasticity.
What is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to bud new neurons (your thinking cells) and to make connections between neurons.
For this process to happen, we need to FOCUS + PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.
The good news is that we all have the ability to create new pathways in the brain, we just have to follow the rules of neuroplasticity.
Fostering Change. One Thing at a Time.
So, now you hopefully have a better understanding of the principles of change. With this clarity, it will help you to foster the changes you seek.
We also recommend you pick ONE thing at a time to work on, rather than try to change many things at once.
How come?
1) It will be easier to focus on one thing at a time.
2) Once you have success changing the first thing it helps to convince your subconscious that you can create other changes in your life!