Writing Resolutions - Why Bother? - by Debra H. Goldstein
For the past few weeks, we have been inundated with writers of articles and blogs, podcasters, TV interviewers, and even family members discussing New Year’s resolutions. One common theme is how many of the resolutions, like exercising to lose weight or writing 1,000 words a day, aren’t followed through upon. Many reasons are given for individual failures: “I got sick and couldn’t get to the gym,” “I got sick and couldn’t get out of bed long enough to write one word let alone 1,000,” or “I got carried away by the season and set an unrealistic goal for myself.”
The latter often is the case. But, I ask you, why set yourself up to be disappointed? Why bother using time and energy to make a resolution? Why not simply do the act, whether it is exercise or writing, to the best of your ability on any given day?
Some say that making the resolution provides accountability. After all, success reinforces good behavior. That’s wonderful, but what level of accountability does failure instill? Will the exerciser or writer crawl into a ball and opt not to do anything rather than strike out again?
Maybe I’m being cynical about resolutions? What do you think? Would you rather simply do what you can or adhere to a resolution (and will you stick to it)?
I don't make resolutions, I prefer to make goals and keep them flexible.
ReplyDeleteMakes two of us.
DeleteI, too, go for goals and objectives. I have found that accountability to others makes reaching those goals more likely.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you, Jim.
DeleteSometimes just maintaining the status quo is goal enough, That's where I am right now.
ReplyDeleteAnd sometimes that takes a lot of effort, too.
DeleteI ignore resolutions, but because January is a productive writing month, I set ambitious goals for it.
ReplyDeleteInteresting. With all the traveling you do, I can understand that some months are better for writing, etc.,than others.
DeleteI've stopped making New Year's resolutions many years ago. I simply try to be as productive as I can be, in all areas of my life.
ReplyDeleteThat is a goal unto itself.
DeleteYou're right. I never thought of it that way.
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