Most New Year’s resolutions work by creating a habit. Considering some of the most popular resolutions — saving money, starting or learning someone new, lowering stress, exercising more — each one requires a sustained behavioral change. 

Creating new habits can make the big difference between a trend of exiting emotional reactions to a lifelong practice. Most people struggle to stick to their New Year’s resolutions for longer than six weeks in part because they focus too much on the desired outcome, and not enough on the day-to-day progress.

Gradual self improvement is much more sustainable and effective method of progression. If you’ve already settled on a positive goal for your New Year’s resolution, lets see how this guide could help you achieve it through the power of habit. 

Planing ahead 

This year, pair your New Year’s resolution with an achievable plan of action. This will help you take that an important first step, and provide a sense of structure to stay on track through the ups and downs of the year. 

You can do yourself a huge favor early on by acquiring any equipment you need. For example, if you’re pursuing fitness goals by attending exercise classes, don’t wait too long to secure things like a comfortable fitness clothing, exercise mat, arranging your schedule or planning free time.

Set measurable milestones  

A major reason why people stumble when trying to make sustained positive changes in life is because their goals are either too big or too vague. For example, if your New Year’s resolution is about learning some ballet, you shouldn’t expect to be a dancer by the end of the year. That would just be setting yourself up for failure.   

Instead: start

• Start by exercising two or three times per week and committing to it at least for 3 months.

• Once that routine is settled, you can add some online classes.

• Add short video classes to exercise in the morning or simply to watch during your breaks.

• To gain more detailed and faster progression try private classes.

Visualize success  

Lots of people find that a visual reminder of what personal success looks like makes it easier to manifest their desires and goals into real action.

Although it doesn’t work like magic, the results of this focused intention-setting can be magical. At its core, vision boarding is a meditative act that helps you become more self-aware, articulating your inner feelings and turning inspiration into accomplishments. 

Remember to have fun  

Everyone is capable of making improvements in their lives and enjoying themselves at the same time. In fact, keeping things light is essential to sustaining your momentum. If progressing on your New Year’s resolutions just feels like homework, you’re bound to have trouble with motivation. Life is hard enough without putting unnecessary pressure on yourself, so try to find a healthy middle ground of equal parts effort and fun. 

Find strength in numbers 

Having a mutual support with a community of people who share your goals is the best way to stay on track and keep progressing. Surround yourself in a positive and inspiring environment at Ballet Body Sculpture classes and find a group of like-minded friends to support your New Year’s resolutions. You can join our classes in Zurich in London at any time, no need to wait for a new month, week, season, etc.; invite your friends to come along to keep you company and work on self-improvement together!

Looking forward to seeing you at our classes & workshops ! Xoxo