After an especially tough year, it's natural to think restarting in the New Year will solve all our problems. This makes it more likely that we'll try to go all-in, causing us to sabotage our efforts. For example, wanting to eat perfectly healthy in the new year and training every day.

A smarter approach is to plan ahead. For example, if you want to exercise more, commit to only three days.

We enjoy the allure of wanting to excel at something new. However, change is hard, and feeling overconfident does not help.

You may find yourself unprepared or ill-equipped to face the reality of the situation. Instead, try to be realistic. Acknowledge that delayed gratification is tough and push yourself when you're tired. Be okay with trying your best. 

Resolutions don't really cause us to change our habits. Instead, it causes us to focus on a specific result rather than addressing the underlying thinking that leads to unhealthy habits.

Before starting a new goal, take the time to reflect on the big picture. The changes you make should align with your values.