#1 Reason Your New Year’s Resolution Does Not Work!

For most, somewhere in the middle of December, something triggers anticipation. The anticipation of counting down to the new year. The anticipation of counting down to a new you.

The count down, the anticipation, and the determination that, this time, I'm going to do it. This time, I'm going to conquer my New Year's resolution. 

Kudos and high fives to everyone that never gives up trying. That is awesome and important! But it is also essential to realize why so many people fail time and time again. Some statistics show that only 8% of people ever achieve their goals. That is less than one out of every ten people.

Why is that? Hint: part of the question is part of the answer. Do tell, you say? Let's go.

The number one New Year's resolution, year in and year out, is to lose weight. And, for a good reason. No matter how much or how little, most everyone I know could lose an inch or so after the holidays. Of course, I'm not judging. I am often in the same boat.

So, for that reason, let's focus on weight loss as an example.

Of course, there is an abundance of reasons why most of us would fail before we even began to see substantial results. They vary from: it's too much work, the results are not coming fast enough, self-doubt, lack of a plan, lack of motivation, no social support, and on and on and on.

But, for those that are determined to succeed this time, there is one critical component to be considered when planning out your New Year's resolution to succeed.

Realizing the success rate of goals is only 8%, how high do you think the success rate to lose weight would increase if you went to the doctor today and he said, "If you do not lose 30 pounds in 9 weeks, you will die of cardiac arrest, kidney failure, or diabetes." If you knew you would not see your loved ones ever again or would not be there for your children when they graduate or get married, would the fact that you would not be around when your family needs you most be a motivator to change your lifestyle? Do you think the percentage of New Year's resolution achievements would go up?

I don't know about you, but the possibility of imminent danger usually gets my attention loud and clear. Realizing that my lack of effort may cause me not to be around for my family when they need me most, gets my attention. And most people feel the same way.

So, why do we fail so often? Actually, because "why" is the answer. The lack of a "why" to be specific. 

For everyday purposes, we are going to refer to your "why" as the main ingredient to your favorite recipe. You cannot successfully prepare an edible meal if you do not have the first part. If you are attempting to smoke chicken or ribs, you can vary the measurements of the rub, spices, coal, and wood for smoking. But, if you do not have the chicken or ribs, aka - the "main ingredient," you will not have chicken or ribs that day.

You have to have a strong enough "why" or you will not accomplish your goals. If your "why" is strong enough, you will find a way to achieve your goals. You will do what it takes and make fewer excuses. You are always busy, but if you have time to remember the main ingredient every day, you can meet your goals!

This year, start with a strong "why" behind your goals and build a successful plan from there. You can do this!