New Year's resolutions

Wellbeing Coach Ann Sharratt explains how a plan of action can help you keep your New Year's resolutions

Ann Sharratt's website

For many busy people juggling work, home life and family is challenge enough without adding the pressure of major changes into the mix.

'Many of us have a strong desire in January to take action and make a few changes', says Ann. 'But our busy lives take over, time drifts by and we end up feeling dissatisfied and frustrated.'

It's quite a natural urge to refresh and renew at the beginning of the year, but in reality we're probably at our lowest ebb and it's not always the best time to start taking action. Let's face it, the stresses and excesses of the festive season combined with grey and miserable skies, not to mention all the nasty bugs flying around - this is hardly a strong foundation for launching new adventurous plans!

Ann encourages her clients to focus more on re-energising and nurturing - she recommends building ourselves up physically and emotionally before even attempting to start making changes. In fact, for those who are feeling run down or exhausted, she advocates doing less at this time of the year - cutting out all but the essentials and using the time to replenish our energy levels.

However, if you are itching to get going and make a few changes, you can use some of your replenishing time to develop a plan of action. After all, a resolution without a plan is simply a daydream. It's a great time of year to start making plans - just don't race ahead too quickly, enjoy the process. So, if you have great intentions of finding a more stimulating job, developing a new business idea or new skill, follow these top tips to give you the very best chance of succeeding with your goal.

1. Find your goal

Ask yourself 'What do I really want to change?' and phrase it positively. 'I am going to feel fit healthy and energised' or 'I'm going to find a fulfilling job where I'm recognised and rewarded well' are both examples of inspiring goals. Write your goal on the top of an A4 sheet.

2. Make a list

Next list all the individual steps you need to move you from where you are now towards your ultimate goal and work out the best time to take your very first baby step.

3. Plan

Assign specific times to completing each individual step and write them in your diary as an appointment with yourself. By specific, I mean between 2-4pm on Saturday, February 3rd - as specific as that! You're prioritising your goal, so try to re-schedule your actions ONLY if an emergency occurs.

4. Imagine success

Imagine how life will look and feel when you reach your goal. Use highly descriptive words, 'I will feel energised, glowing with health, positive and motivated,' and write out your ideal vision. Perhaps, even pin a picture of your vision to the fridge door or on your desk. Keep your written vision somewhere close at hand to inspire you daily.

5. Enjoy your progress

Enjoy the journey. Celebrate each little step along the way. Then, when you reach your goal, give yourself a reward. What would inspire you to keep moving towards your end goal? Is it something symbolic or a big treat, such as a weekend away?

'Goal-setting can be fun and you'll find your motivation levels will soar as you begin to take action,' says Ann. The final message is - nurture and re-energise first, then plan to succeed.

Need some extra motivation in making changes in your life? Visit Ann's website at www.annsharrattcoaching.com or call her on 01425 273235 to arrange a free Coaching Consultation