MAKING NEW YEAR'S resolutions can be an effective way of concentrating the mind and setting new goals to achieve.
In fact, doing just that has become a familiar annual routine for perhaps hundreds of millions of people. But how many of those people starting the year with such good intentions actually stick to their resolutions, and for how long?
Although a failure to stay the course is usually just shrugged off, in certain cases there can be serious repercussions, especially if substantial time and effort have been invested.
It can lead to a lingering feeling of defeat or a loss of self-confidence, which can severely affect people's day-to-day performance and their chances of future success. Therefore, it pays to think carefully about what we really want and how we intend to achieve it.
A New Year's resolution is generally the expression of a strong wish or desire that, we feel sure, will bring noticeable improvement if successfully accomplished.
It is best to concentrate on the main thing you have decided to do and not link it to all sorts of conditions. For example, if your resolution is to stop smoking, set a method and a timetable. Do not give yourself a series of exceptions by saying it will be OK to have a cigarette when you are with friends.
Also, examine your own motives and understand what the contemplated changes will involve. There is no point in kidding yourself, so plan ahead realistically and recognise your
