New year’s resolutions: what’s in store in 2019

Why should you bother making New Year’s Resolutions? What should they be? What is Hannah the traveller resolving to do? Read on to find the answers!


There’s that day in January which is supposed to be the most depressing day of the year. It comes at a time when the weather is miserable, Christmas is behind us and everyone has failed at their resolutions. Well not this year! The secret to successful goal-setting is here.


Why should you set resolutions?

I love a list to tick off and milestones to reach. Even better if there’s a medal or certificate involved. It’s proof of achievement and bragging rights. Setting achievable goals for the year can be really motivating, and also provides an opportunity to reflect on what’s important and what you want to change about your life. If you’re the sort of person that makes a list in January and has forgotten about it in February then the following five tips are going to help you out.

1. Be precise - there’s no point in saying ‘learn Spanish’ or ‘get fit’ if you don’t have a way of measuring your success. How about ‘use Duolingo everyday’ or ‘run twice a week’. That way you know what to do and if you’ve done it.
2. Be realistic - set a goal you stand a chance of attaining. Winning the lottery or flying to the moon are out. And if you don’t know how to ride a bike, then the London to Paris bike ride is possibly too ambitious this year. How about going for a 1 hour ride on a certain date?
3. Be flexible - some resolutions are specific, like running a marathon or changing job, but if you want to get fitter or learn a new skill then you can set smaller, shorter term goals to keep you motivated and adjust the final goal as you proceed. And just because you slip up for a week or two doesn’t mean you should abandon your plan. Get back at it as soon as you can.
4. Tell someone - if you make your plans known then you have some accountability. They can support you and might even want to join in. Tell me!
5. Have fun - you’re infinitely more likely to stick to your goal if you enjoy it. Want to stop biting your nails? Set rewards for yourself each week. Want to get fitter? Join a team sport rather than the lonely gym.

What is Hannah the traveller resolving for 2019?

I’m so glad you asked! Here comes some accountability, if I write it in a blog then it has to happen. Here goes:

1. Run a marathon - Marriotts Way Marathon is in February and I’m all signed up.
2. Complete a swimming event - this sounds a bit vague but I’ve got a few events in mind and will give it some more thought after I’ve ticked off Number 1.
3. Talk Spanish with humans - I’ve been learning Spanish for ages but don’t actually speak with real people very much. I’m going to find a Meet up or get lessons.
4. 30 days of yoga - finding the time for 30 consecutive days of yoga only requires a little effort. I’ll make a tick chart for myself and follow videos Yoga with Adriene

What do you think of my resolutions? Any other advice for setting achievable goals? Want to tell me yours? Or join in with any of mine? Comment below and follow my progress on social media.