Written by SEWI-ATD Guest Blogger, Craig Bodoh

The turn of the calendar from one year to another often motivates people to set, or ponder setting, a New Year's Resolution. But time and time again people set themselves up for failure if they don't follow a few simple rules.

The opportunity to reflect upon what went well and what didn't in the current year and what one would like to change in the new year can be a great way to make a difference in how one's life changes.

But what's that quote? “If nothing changes but you expect a different result, it's called -----”.

Habits good or bad are a huge part of your daily routine. How you brush your teeth, or put on your clothes are examples of habits that serve you. What is your natural reaction to a stressful situation? Raise one of your five fingers? Say something you might regret? When you are driving along and the railroad crossing gates come down and you are forced to wait, how do you react? These reactions (your habits) can be changed over time.

The R.E.A.L. simple formula to follow for setting New Year's Resolutions:

R = Realistic; Get clear and be specific about the new behavior.

E = Enjoy the process; It takes a minimum of 21 days for a new habit to become a part of your life. And if you stop the new habit during the 21st day of the habit formation period, it is day ONE the next time you begin the new habit. That's right, it takes daily focus and regular practice for the new habit to become part of your life.

A = Action; Regular focus on the new change, supported by affirmations, brings change into reality.

L = Long term goal; Determine the what, the how, and the why you want this new habit or goal to become a part of your life.

Far too many people expect quick results - The “get rich quick schemes,” the infomercials that offer a better body in minutes. The easiest path is what everyone wants to take. When in reality, changes can happen, but not at the speed the marketing department wants you to believe it will take. Constant, regular, focus will make changes happen. Understanding the process of how new habits can be brought into your life makes a huge difference in how things end up.

Instead of the earlier quote, “If nothing changes but you expect a different result, it's called -----,” you now can understand and believe,

“If you make simple positive changes on a regular basis, anything is possible.” ~Bodoh

About Craig Bodoh

Craig has been an active SEWI-ATD member since 1990. He is president and founder of Personal Effectiveness Plus, a personal development coaching practice specializing in time management. As a certified Master Life Coach and trained time management consultant he has helped hundreds of people begin a path to a fuller, richer life. Craig is also an adjunct instructor for Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC), a workshop leader, a public speaker, an author, a figure skating coach, and a music director. He works from his passions, using his skills to do what he loves; making a difference in people's lives through personal development. Contact Craig if he can be of service to you!

Email: timeman@earthlink.net

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/craigbodoh

Website: www.gainingtime.com

Twitter: @gainingtime