Every new year, we say we will do all these wonderful things. We have grand plans to start meditating, to yell mantras to the universe, and we expect destiny to guide us to success. The truth is about 43 percent of goal-setters give up on their resolutions by February; one in four people quit within the first week. Sadly, only about 9 percent follow through with their promises to themselves.
We fail to achieve our goals, in fitness and otherwise, for various reasons. One major factor is that we must break certain habits to succeed and reach the next level.
Come February and beyond, which percentage group will you find yourself in? Here are some reasons you fail, as well as some advice to help you break the pattern:
1. YOU DON’T OPTIMIZE YOUR TIME FOR SUCCESS.
It’s the new year, and you are so pumped about what 2024 has in store. You start documenting your goals for everything you want to improve. Then, the time comes to act on it. You realize that you’ve over-planned, or didn’t plan well enough, to really improve.
2. YOU MAKE GOALS THAT AREN’T ACHIEVABLE.
When it comes to fitness, for instance, we all have different goals. You may want to gain or lose weight, or perhaps you want to flatten your tummy and get an hourglass waist. Whatever your aim, one of the reasons you aren’t achieving it is because you aren’t taking the necessary steps to lose those pounds or gain muscle mass.
You must consider where you are in your fitness experience. For example, if you’re a beginner and want to gain muscle mass, you must know the proper way to do it and realize that it won’t happen overnight. Whatever workout you do, and whatever your fitness goals, pursue them properly and find a trainer who can manage your expectations. Take baby steps, and by the end of the year, you’ll have climbed that mountain.
3. YOU MAKE EXCUSES.
Who hasn’t used the following lines: I’ll go later. I’m just too busy. I just have so much to do! We may truly have a full plate, but we still must find time to prioritize the things that matter. And what could be more important than our health and mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing?
Before you make an excuse or sit down to binge that Netflix show, consider the benefits you’re missing by skipping the gym.
4. YOU ARE SCARED OF FAILING.
We all must fail, because otherwise, how will we know how to succeed? Whether they’re fitness, personal or business goals, you will fail sometimes in life. When you do, know that it’s not the end of the world; it’s the beginning of your growth.
Inevitably, when you start a new fitness regimen, you’ll do some exercises wrong. It might feel weird, or you might feel out of place at first. Don’t let your pride or insecurities prevent you from trying and ultimately succeeding. Once you succeed, you’ll not only feel great, but you’ll look great, too.
5. YOU OVERWHELMED YOUR WORKOUT ROUTINE.
Less is more. Some people think that because they have this two-hour workout with a gazillion different exercises that they are doing things right – well, not necessarily. Try not to overdo the first few weeks; pushing too hard can cause serious muscle strain. Overdoing your workout routine when you’re just beginning can cause physical problems, but it also won’t get you results faster. Find the right routine and gradually work your way up to adding more weight or reps. Start small, and do workouts that target the part of your body you want to challenge. Be patient, give it time, and the results will come.
6. YOU DON’T PUT IN THE WORK.
When you work out, give it your all. Not putting in maximum effort is very common, and some people don’t even realize they are holding back. You will never see results if you do not push yourself and only do light workouts. Yes, you might start out light, but goals are achieved step by step; just make sure you are adding incrementally more as you get comfortable.
7. YOU RELY ON OTHERS TO PUSH YOU.
I’ve mentioned that personal trainers can be helpful — as can a community of people who hold you accountable to your goals. However, your support system can only take you so far; the rest is up to you. You know your “why” better than anyone — whether it’s wanting to feel better mentally, look better physically or just try something new. You must be your own coach because ultimately, the competition is you versus you.