By the end of January, we’ve shrugged off our resolutions as we slip back into old routines. What’s the point? Why keep trying to get it right when it hasn’t worked? The idea made sense, and the goal would have made us better. We wanted something good, and we did really mean it. Then life got crazy, and we realize our ambitions may have exceeded our abilities.
I know I’ve been there. Like a majority of Americans, I decided I was going to get in better shape this year. From working out more to eating better, I was doing pretty well. Then out of nowhere, I got hit with LIFE. My original goal went off the rails. Could I really get back on track?
Haven’t we all been there? We’re moving along, headed in the direction we wanted. All of a sudden, life throws us a curve and we hit the dirt. The goal we had set so clearly is now somewhere in another direction and we don’t know HOW to get back up. Most people just give up on the resolution, going back to the comfortable routines. In fact, less than 10 percent of Americans actually succeed at keeping their New Year’s Resolutions. I’m guessing most of the time you are with me in that other 90 percent. Right? We’re above average!
So HOW can we right the course and keep going? When we fall off track, HOW can we get back? Sometimes we have to remember why we made the resolution in the first place, turn around, and get back at it. C.S. Lewis knew “[we] all want progress, but if you’re on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road.” It’s okay to get off track, as long as you get back to it.
Getting back on track is much easier said than done, especially if you fall hard. That’s why I stress the importance of surrounding yourself with people who can drag you back where you need to be. Some people are already on the track you want to follow, and they know HOW to pull you back when you get out of line. When you land on your face, they’re the ones who will pick you up, dust you off, and get you pointed in the right direction again. You just need to allow, ask and accept the help.
If you’re off the rails right now, and that New Year’s Resolution seems like a pipe dream, it’s time to pause and look back. Why did you make the resolution in the first place? Look HOW much progress you have made in just a month. Let the new growth encourage you, and reach out to someone who can get you back on track. You know what you want to accomplish, and you’re learning HOW to get there.