Hi everyone,
you probably still remember the movie 'groundhog day'. Bill Murray realizes that every morning is the start of the same day. Things just never seem to change...
Somehow new year's resolutions remind me to this movie. In just about five weeks from now, statistically 40-50 percent of our population start 2016 with these resolutions. But 25 percent of us will forget about it already after just one week. It seems to be the same procedure every year:
1.New Year's eve: Being convinced to change a lot this upcoming year
2.January: We're kind of following up to our new year's resolutions although we don't really feel motivated anymore
3.End of January: Throwing new year's resolutions over board
4.July: Which New Year's resolution? I cannot remember...
5.December: I really have to lose weight. Let's start New Year's!
How can this vicious cycle control us so much?
Neuroscientists have figured out that we use for our intentions and resolutions a part of the brain called prefrontal cortex. This part seems to be very busy since we use it for our short term memory and for our resolutions and intentions at the same time. It has to select new and old actions. Because of its high usage, it tends to forget older stuff.
But there is hope to make changes in your life, if you follow a couple of tips:
1.Just have one resolution at a time. Like stated above, the poor frontal cortex just cannot handle too many!
2.Establish a reward system for yourself. If you follow up through your resolution, treat yourself nicely, like inviting yourself for the movies. The forgetfulness of the prefontal cortex might surrender if you reward yourself on a regular base.
3.Specify your goals. Don't just say 'live healthier.' Rather set your goals like 'eat 50 percent less animal fat for the next 30 days.'
4.We tend to exaggerate opinions of ourselves when it comes to intentions and resolutions. Just set up realistic goals. It might not be realistic to lose 60 pounds next year. Start with 20 pounds each year for the next three years.
5.Focus on the positive you reach and leave the negative aside. You want to be your own inner motivational speaker instead of a punishing boss to yourself.
I personally wouldn't connect my wish for change with any kind of day anyway. I'd rather start today to work on myself. I support my client in changing job, living dreams, reaching goals, a positive lifestyle and overcoming dreams in my personal life coachings and motivational speeches. Please check it out or connect to me on facebook for more information.
Yours, Michael Wigge