As much as we hate to admit it, we will have setbacks when working to change our habits. We all slip from time to time–and this “failure” is actually a good thing. A great way to deal with setbacks is to plan for them. Jot down and create hypothetical scenarios that you may encounter with your resolutions and solutions to these problems. That way, if and when you do experience a setback, you will already know how to handle it.
Here’s an example: One of your New Year’s resolutions is to change your diet and eat healthier, but you’ve found yourself wanting to “cheat” and binge on sugary foods. Some possible solutions could be to find recipes that get you excited to eat more fruits and vegetables, experiment with different seasonings and spices to enhance the flavor of your meals, set aside one meal each week as a “cheat” meal so that you don’t feel like you’re completely denying yourself, or practice mindfulness techniques when you are eating so you can appreciate the food you are eating and enjoy it!