New Year’s Resolutions Can be a family affair

New Year’s Resolutions are Hard

We have just started a New Year and people might be planning or have already made new year’s resolutions. But unfortunately, one of the harsh realities is that many people do not follow through on their resolutions. For example, 43% of people give up on their new year’s resolution by the end of January, and 90% fail by the end of March.
As a relational therapist, I know from practice experience that resolutions are much more likely to stick when people secure support. Some of the best help we can get is making resolutions a family affair; nothing is more potent than having our family involved in developing a shared vision for changes in the new year.
How do I Get Family Members Involved
If one family member dictates what everyone is expected to do, people are less likely to feel committed to family resolutions. We naturally resist dictators or put in half-hearted efforts. Successful family resolutions are more achievable when everyone is consulted and involved. Getting people involved and invested might include having a family meeting and discussing goals everyone might be keen on achieving. Successful family resolutions are simple, measurable, achievable, and fun. Some examples of some of the new year’s resolutions families I have worked with have made include:
1. Do one weekly physical activity together as a family; keep it simple; it could be a walk in the neighbourhood or on the beach
2. Change one thing in terms of family eating patterns; for example, choosing one day not to eat sugar or replace meat
3. Choosing a time weekly to turn off screens and do something not screen related like talk or play a game
4. Choose a family saving goal; for example, all the quarters or dollar coins can be placed into a bottle to save and spend at the end of the year

Jomo Phillips, Couple & Family Therapist