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Write It Down: Documenting your resolutions makes them
tangible and serves as a constant reminder. Keep your goals
visible—whether on a sticky note on your mirror or as a daily
phone notification.
Track Progress: Celebrate small wins along the way. Use a
journal, app, or calendar to monitor your progress. Tracking keeps
you accountable and provides a sense of accomplishment.
Seek Support: Share your goals with friends, family, or a
community group. Having someone to cheer you on or hold you
accountable can make a significant difference.
Embrace Flexibility: Life is unpredictable, and rigid goals can
lead to frustration. Adjust your approach as needed without feeling
like you’ve failed.
If You’ve Slipped…
By February, many people feel discouraged if they haven’t
How Are You Doing adhered to their resolutions. But here’s the good news: progress
with Your New Year’s Resolutions? is not linear, and failure is a natural part of growth. Instead of
abandoning your goals, use setbacks as learning opportunities.
Reflect on what went wrong and how you can adapt your strategy.
by Michelle Avola-Brown, Executive Director,
Naples Pathways Coalition Consider the words of author Zig Ziglar: “Failure is an event,
not a person.” Missing a gym session or overspending doesn’t
he arrival of a new year is synonymous define you. It’s what you do next that matters. Remember, every
with fresh starts and ambitious goals. day is a new opportunity to realign with your goals.
T Every January, millions of Americans Motivation to Start Again
set New Year’s resolutions with the hope of
If you’ve fallen off track, there’s no shame in starting over.
making meaningful changes in their lives.
Here’s why February can be the perfect time to recommit:
From improving fitness to saving more money
Fresh Perspective: With the initial New Year’s buzz behind
or pursuing a long held dream, resolutions
you, you can set more realistic and thoughtful goals.
represent our collective optimism. Yet, as
Shorter Timelines: Instead of a year-long resolution, focus on
February rolls around, many of those aspirations begin to waver.
quarterly or monthly goals to maintain motivation.
If you’ve found yourself in this position, take heart: you’re not
alone, and it’s never too late to start again. Proven Resilience: The act of trying again demonstrates your
The Statistics Behind Resolutions determination and willingness to grow.
Studies reveal that while approximately 40% of Americans Incorporate motivational tools like vision boards, inspiring
make New Year’s resolutions, the success rates aren’t as promising. quotes, or accountability partners to keep your spirits high.
According to research by the University of Scranton, only 8% of Remind yourself why you set the goal in the first place and
people achieve their resolutions, while a survey by Statista shows envision the benefits of achieving it.
that around 23% abandon them within the first week. By the time New Year’s resolutions are not about perfection; they’re about
February arrives, nearly 64% of resolutions have been cast aside. progress. Whether you’re thriving with your goals or finding it
So, why is it so challenging to stick to these goals? Experts difficult to stay the course, know that it’s never too late to pursue
suggest that unrealistic expectations, lack of planning, and meaningful change. This February, give yourself grace, reevaluate
inadequate support systems are often to blame. However, these your approach, and reignite your commitment to a better you.
obstacles can be overcome with the right strategies and mindset. After all, the journey to self improvement is ongoing, and every
Tips to Stick with Your Resolutions step counts.
If you’re determined to stay on track this year, here are some If getting in shape, having more fun, meeting new people,
practical tips: trying something new or getting outside more are on your list of
Start Small: Ambitious resolutions are inspiring but can goals, I have the perfect thing for you!
th
quickly become overwhelming. Instead of pledging to lose 50 Join us at the 19 Annual TD Bank Naples Bike Brunch
pounds, focus on losing 1-2 pounds per week. Breaking your goal & Walk on Sunday, March 2 at Cambier Park. We’ll start the
into manageable steps increases your chances of success. morning with a light breakfast and great coffee, then head out
Be Specific: Vague goals like “get healthier” or “save money” on a bike ride (between 5 and 62 miles) or a 3 mile walk. When
lack direction. Instead, aim for measurable outcomes, such as everyone returns, we’ll have a hearty lunch with healthy and
exercising for 30 minutes three times a week or saving $100 from decadent options, beer and soft drinks, music, raffles and more!
each paycheck. See you there!

For more information, please visit www.NaplesPathways.org and www.HandsFreeFlorida.org
If you have any specific questions, email me at Michelle@NaplesPathways.org
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