All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
When it comes to Lululemonleggingsor Yeezy Boost sneakers, you cant have too many.
Conceptual artwork by Eva Jauss
But when youre settingintentionsfor the New Year, one big idea may be just right.
Changes are easier to make when youre not overwhelmed at the start, she says.
If you pick one, youll stay energized and be more likely to follow through.
Conceptual artwork by Eva Jauss
Thats not to say you cant improve other areas of your life, too.
A great objectivehas a domino effect, says Zander.
It often sets other transformations in motion.
Take a minute toreflecton what change would have a big impact on your fulfillment in the coming year.
What would have made your life even more awesome last year?
What accomplishment would bring you closer to a future you envision for yourself?
At the same time, be realistic.
Theideal goalpushes you but isnt beyond your means.
Running the company you just started working at last week?
Totally amazing and doable.
Seek Out InspoPinpointing theright thing to commit tocan take time, and it isnt always obvious.
Or put together a Pinterest board of images that inspire you; youll likely spot a trend.
Pick one ambition for each, then choose the one youre most drawn to.
Or go for the goal you cant wait to start.
A sense of urgency is motivating, says Jen Sincero, life coach and author ofYou Are a Badass.
Get SpecificVague intentions (work out more, spend less) generallydont get you far.
If its lofty, it can seem unreachable, says Sincero.
Going public creates a level of accountability, she points out.
Plus, to make it follow through, we need to be comfortable with our ambitions.
Whether you want to run for local office or change a difficult relationship, own it.
Tap the excitement about your newly chosen mission and start strategizing.
The key to following through on any goal ismapping out a clear and simple step-by-step plan.
Each phase should feel unambiguous and have a deadline attached to keep you moving forward.
If you want stronger abs this year, start by mastering one newcore-strengthening moveevery two weeks, Davis says.
It will be less overwhelming, and you’re able to bask in those early wins.
Just as important: Remove obstacles from your way.
You just get in the mind-set of This is what Im doing.
Make It SocialYouve already shared your pursuits with friends, family, or others who will encourage you.
Even better if you have a buddy who will participate in that beach cleanup with you.
Find out if anyone in your online grid is interested in something similar, and team up.
Communityis a huge part of staying motivated, says Zander.
Were better at keeping promises we make to other people than ones we make to ourselves, says Zander.
Track Your ProgressApps likeGoalsOnTrack,Mint, andTipYourselfhelp you stick to the schedule and chart your accomplishments.
once you nail some momentum built up, make it last.
When you reach a mini-goal, celebrate it IRL and on your feed, says Davis.
Treat YourselfDont underestimate the motivating power of rewards, says Zander.
In the end, the client sold a pilot (cheers!).
Learn From SetbacksStudies show that athletes who display self-compassion often perform better because they can tolerate losses.
Its the same with goals.
See failures as learning experiences, not character faults, says Sincero.
Then decode the reasons behind your slip-up: Were you bored with your circuit routine?
Switch it up or listen to a new playlist.
Or maybe youve reached a plateau, and you actually need to stretch yourselffurther, says Sincero.
Is there any better endgame?
You Make Also Like: The 5-Move Before-Breakfast Workout you’re able to Do At Home