Share these goal setting tips with your AHS student to help develop their perspective on what is really important to them.
When making a new year’s resolution, the key to success is setting realistic goals. How many times have you or people around you made a resolution so extreme that it is out of the window by January 7th? It happens often because people either make goals that are too broad or make goals that require a complete lifestyle overhaul.
- Set an extremely specific goal. Note that there is a major difference between “exercise more” and “exercise 20 minutes each day.” By creating specific goals you are able to measure progress.
- Take baby steps. If you are someone that hasn’t prioritized a major facet of your resolution in the past, start by gradually increasing your goal. For example, if you currently spend 3 hours on your phone each day, creating a resolution to completely stop spending idle time on your phone is unrealistic. Cut down your time spent by 30 minutes each week to reach your goal. Small changes to habits you wish to kick are changes nonetheless.
- Finally, a great way to preserve mental health in new year’s resolutions is to accept that changes take time and persistence. If you happen to fall off of your resolution there is no shame in picking back up. If your goal is valuable to you, getting back on track should be a sign of persistence opposed to a sign of failure. Accepting setbacks is key in making positive changes.
Happy New Year!
Kiara Thomas- Wellness Intake Specialist
