HOUSTON – Most people break their New Year’s resolutions within one month of making them, and we are already halfway through the month of January. Licensed psychotherapist Laura Temin shares ways to avoid the resolution slump.
“Really, the truth is that we’re working against ourselves, and we don’t even realize it,” said Temin.
According to Temin, there are three main ways people sabotage their own resolutions.
“One is internal conflict. We’re at odds with ourselves,” said Temin.
She sites the example of someone deciding they want to lose weight, while not wanting to wake up early and workout or sacrifice comfort food.
In the second point, “What vs. How,” Temin explains it’s the dilemma of knowing what to do, but not how to do it consistently.
And the third way is all about willpower versus imagination.
“Willpower is like that bossy boss that says, ‘You can’t leave until you get the job done.’ The imagination is the part that says, ‘Well, I’m working really hard, and I deserve a treat,’” said Temin.
Luckily, Temin provides three proven methods to help us keep our New Year resolutions.
“The first thing we need to do is become aware that there’s a conflict and resolve the conflict,” said Temin.
She emphasizes that failure does not constitute weakness. Rather, it’s that we have two parts of us fighting against each other.
Secondly, Temin says to remember that there is no straight path to where you’re going, and you should expect to go off track.
“It’s what you do when you’re off track that either helps you get back on track or just give up,” said Temin.
The final method is to align your mind. According to Temin, aligning the conscious mind and the subconscious mind will help strengthen your willpower by using your imagination intentionally.
“Imagination is so powerful, so let’s use it for our benefit. Think instead how great it would be to zip up those pants that don’t fit,” said Temin.
To connect with Laura Temin, visit her website.