We wrote our intentions for 2011 on a window at the studio. Nothing like a public declaration to get you committed! Wait -- that's not what I meant...
Every year I find myself on the front lines of the New Year’s Resolution Rush; the willy-nilly shame-fest that people engage in as a way to punish themselves for having too much fun over the holidays. It comes as no surprise that the shine wears off of a resolution when it feels more like a curse than a blessing.
88% of all New Year’s resolutions end in failure, according to a 2007 survey of over 3,000 people conducted by the British psychologist Richard Wiseman.
Willpower, like a bicep, can only exert itself so long before it gives out; it’s an extremely limited mental resource. The brain area largely responsible for willpower, the prefrontal cortex, is located just behind the forehead. While this bit of tissue has greatly expanded during human evolution, it probably hasn’t expanded enough. That’s because the prefrontal cortex has many other things to worry about besides New Year’s resolutions. For instance, scientists have discovered that this chunk of cortex is also in charge of keeping us focused, handling short-term memory and solving abstract problems. Asking it to force you to get to class early in the morning or after a long hard day is often asking it to do one thing too many.
Start by setting reasonable goals for yourself that are only a few degrees off the course you are already on. Trying to swing the train around 180 degrees in a short period of time results in derailment rather than a change of direction. Add 1 more class per week to your regular schedule. Once that is a regular and manageable part of your routine, add another.
Furthermore, Wiseman’s study showed that 35% of people who seek support (read: yoga buddy) for their resolutions will keep them alive, compare to just 26% who rely on their willpower alone. Need help meeting people? Ask us! (Hint: We’re having a party on Saturday where we’re matching up yoga buddies. More info below.)
Finally, make your resolutions process-oriented. Rather than “touch my head to my feet,” try, “pull harder on my big toes.”
Set yourself up so that you enjoy fulfilling your resolution. When getting to class is a highlight of your day, it becomes easier and easier for you assimilate it into your routine. Your evolution feels natural, organic, and positive.
Then, indeed, you continue your Happy New Year!