Never tell anyone that you’re writing a book, going on a diet, exercising, taking a course, or quitting smoking. They’ll encourage you to death.
- Lynn Johnston
At this time of year many of us have made resolutions, be it to quit smoking, learn a new skill or (in my case) become a freelance writer. Still, we all know resolutions don’t last beyond the month of January right? After all it’s always more comfortable in your current situation and the prospect of change can be daunting at best.
So you’ve made that all important resolution but now you’re not too sure. Doubt is beginning to creep back into your mind quietly whispering to you that you cannot do it, that it won’t work. You may as well give up now and do something that is easier, but how can you avoid the embarrassment of defeat?
Accountability
The simple answer is not to tell anyone what you plan to do. By telling our peers (family, friends, business partners) we become accountable to them. Every time you speak to one of them they’ll ask you how’s the diet going or how’s the quitting going. Imagine how awkward you’ll feel when you have to either admit you’ve given up or worse yet, lie to them!
Accountability is the mechanism we use to overcome our natural resistance. A guaranteed way of getting something done is to promise someone you’ll do it. It also serves to overcome the boiling frog effect; we’re blinded to the gradual changes that occur in our lives whereas our peers aren’t. After all if you cannot see the progress you’re making why bother continuing?
So don’t tell anyone what your new year’s resolutions are, they’ll only make sure you fulfil them. Is it me or is the water getting warmer?
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