Resolute: adjective meaning “firmly resolved or determined; set in purpose or opinion.”

I am not a big fan of New Year’s resolutions, and not for the reasons you might think. I believe each of us should evaluate our goals on a continuous basis, not just once a year. I believe it’s important to remain resolute always, which is why years ago I began setting New Month resolutions.

What Exactly is a New Month Resolution?

Just like the goals many people set each year in January, goals you set at the beginning of each month can be considered resolutions. For instance, if I want to lose weight this year, I may resolve to exercise more in January, cut out sugar in February, and ride 100 miles on my bike in March. Sometimes I’ll even take my monthly goals and break them down into smaller chunks for a week or two at a time.

Why are Year-Round Resolutions Important?

The problem with once-a-year resolutions is that most people quickly lose interest as their goals seem further and further out of reach. Breaking your goals down and concentrating on them week in and week out is essential to success. The holiday season is a great example of why these weekly or monthly goals are important. Instead of feeling guilty and defeated after eating turkey leftovers for days, I can wake up on a Monday morning and set my sights on a great week ahead. I can resolve to do better this week with watching what I eat, and I’m motivated all over again.

How Do I Write My Resolutions?

Healthy goal setting is about knowing what you’re capable of, what outside limitations there may be, and what your level of motivation is. There are no rules. I simply right a list on one sheet of paper, detailing what I want to accomplish for the month. I then post it alongside my calendar so I can schedule what needs to be done to accomplish those goals. If you use an online calendar and task program, that works well too. Here’s the best part: nothing is not set in stone. Modify your list at any time, but remember to be true to yourself when deciding whether to give up on an important goal.

Try it for yourself. It’s a new week and a new month. Make a list of what you can do to reduce holiday stress, work off those extra holiday calories, and prepare yourself for the rest of the holiday season.

Diane Penna writes about her family at Crazy Mom’s Journal, and blogs for b5media at Weighting Line.

Picture courtesy of Asja @ stock.xchng