Struggling to stick to your New Year’s resolutions? Don’t give up – just change the way you approach them.

If you’re finding it hard to keep up your New Year’s resolutions: you’re not alone. According to statistics almost 80% of us have given up on them by February, with most citing a lack of motivation, accountability or resolve for their failure.

While making New Year’s resolutions such as losing weight, giving up smoking or hitting the gym more may seem like a good idea at the time, the dedication that’s required to stick to these lifestyle changes can be hard to find, let alone maintain.

But rather than give up, why not try reframing the goals and adapting your mindset to ensure you succeed in keeping to your resolutions? The power to make a change is in your hands!

1. Really want it

It might sound basic, but really wanting the end result is a great motivator when it comes to making and sticking to New Year’s resolutions. There’s no sense in picking something utterly unattainable or something you’re not really connecting to. A resolution doesn’t have to be massive or life-changing; it just needs to be something that brings a positive change to your day-to-day life.

2. Be realistic

One of the main reasons people fail on their New Year’s resolutions is down to the fact that many are simply not realistic. It’s important to be mindful of what’s worth channelling your energy but also working towards achievable things. If you’re struggling with your resolution, look more closely at the core reasons for choosing it and adapt where needed to have more realistic expectations.

3. Mindset matters

You’ve got to get your head in the game. Most resolutions won’t work if you’re not committing to them. And if you’re not truly committed anymore ask yourself why. Having the right mindset to push forward and make these resolutions a reality is vital. Track your progress and celebrate the wins, while being mindful of setbacks.

4. Plan your time

According to experts, one of the most important aspects of successfully changing behaviour or goals is planning. A lack of effective planning means you’re likely setting yourself up to fail in the long term. Ask yourself: what do I really want from this? What do I need to make this happen and how can I use my time wisely to accomplish this?

5. Manifest your happiness

Whether you want to find love or take the trip of a lifetime; manifesting is an increasingly popular method for actualising what you want from life. If your resolution is to meet someone special or see places you’ve only dreamed of don’t settle – tell yourself you’re worthy of good things that can come your way.

6. Don’t punish yourself

Sometimes things don’t go to plan and for one reason or another, it’s not possible to stick to your resolutions. Life isn’t linear and long-term change comes from accepting you make mistakes. Whether that be the cheat meal you feel guilty about or the gym session you missed to see a friend instead; it’s ok and you don’t need to beat yourself up about it. If you slip up it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Re-evaluate, reassess, and regroup.