It's February 1st and You've Already Given Up on Your New Year's Resolutions? You're Lacking Mental Toughness!

It's February 1st and You've Already Given Up on Your New Year's Resolutions? You're Lacking Mental Toughness!
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It's almost February 1. Remember those New Year's resolutions you made at the beginning of the year? It's only been just under a month, but have you already given up? Was this supposed to be your year to lose weight? Did you have big plans of growing your business? Maybe taking more chances?

Whatever your goal was, you might have forgotten all about it by now. In fact, only 10 percent of people actually fully commit to their New Year's resolutions, and at least one in three ditch them all together by the end of January.

The reason most people can't stay on track is because they lack the mental toughness to stick to their goals. Making a change is hard work, and most people simply aren't prepared or equipped with the mental toughness it takes to succeed. But don't worry, February 1 is almost here, and if your plan is to start over and try again, focus on building up your mental toughness and your goals will be reached much sooner.

Here are some ways to do it.

Use objective reality
A lot of people live in a fantasy world and see things how they wish they could be instead of how they really are. Avoid delusion and operate from objective reality. In other words, don't expect reaching your goals to be a walk in the park. Know that it's going to take a lot of hard work and there will be plenty of temptation to derail you along the way. If you're ready to face the obstacles and stare down adversity in the face, you're going to be more successful.

You can't go at it alone
If you're one of those people who thinks mental toughness is all about being a tough guy and trying to do everything on your own, you're wrong! Being mentally tough means knowing when to ask for help. When it comes to accomplishing your goals, find someone to help you. There's a reason business mastermind groups and mentors work so well. When you have the collective power of a team behind you, it quickens the process. When it comes to your goals, get an accountability partner, be it a friend, spouse or coach.

Compartmentalize
Let's face reality: life can be hectic between work, kids and all our responsibilities. So when it comes to making a change in your life, one of the keys to success is the ability to compartmentalize, or focus on one thing at a time. Whatever your goal is, make sure and allocate a certain amount of time each day where you only focus on that goal and nothing else. When you start focusing on too many things at once, you become overwhelmed and your problems and solutions become tangled with each other and you give up. Devote your mental energy to one thing at a time.

Think big
While most people are content thinking about how to survive and just get by with the least amount of pain and struggle, world-class performers are always thinking big and planning for the future. Don't just think about accomplishing your goals; think about what it would mean to accomplish your goals. What is the end result really like? What would it really mean to lose 30 pounds? Yes, you'll be healthier, but think about how much more confidence and energy you will have. Think about how that will impact your career, relationships and day-to-day interactions with people. Always think big!

Become completely committed
Perhaps the most important part of mental toughness and accomplishing your goals is to become fully committed to the process. If you take on a challenge and are not 100-percent committed, you're not going to be successful. You can't cheat on your goals. Imagine telling your spouse you've only been 99% faithful. That wouldn't go over too well. Approach your goals with the same level of seriousness and you'll be more successful.

The takeaway
When it comes to accomplishing your goals this year, start by developing the mental toughness to make it happen. Without it, you'll wind up finding yourself in the same place come next year at this time. Wouldn't it be nice to do it once and for all? Develop the mental toughness to make it happen and watch your life takeoff before your eyes.

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