Illustration by Michael Parkin

Each year millions of men across the world want to create a better version of themselves at the start of a new calendar. If you’re already struggling with your 2020 resolutions then this is for you.

Before we start let me make this clear; you have not booked yourself a one-way ticket to a guilt trip. Often many of us already start thinking about areas of improvement right after the over indulging that usually comes with the holidays. When it is all said and done the remorse of all the booze, homemade desserts and frivolous spending can be deafening.

But let me guess you were hopeful going into new year’s day? Chances are you started off very strong the first week of January and then little by little you settled into your old ways. Getting up in the morning to hit the gym didn’t seem as crucial after the second week? That personal expense document hasn’t been updated in a while? You keep saying to yourself you’ll get to starting that long overdue project tomorrow? If this feels way too close to home don’t feel discouraged; there is hope my friend. Here are some practical tips that will help you shake the procrastination and avoidance and help you make your 2020 resolutions a reality.

Write It Out

Some of the most powerful men in history (Genghis Khan is my go to example) attributed their success to putting thoughts to paper. When I started to include this into my daily routine it made total sense why this is so powerful. Simply put when you jot something down there is instant accountability. Even if you toss the actual piece of paper away you will still keep that thought in mind; for better or worse. An effective tool that I learned from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey is called the weekly mind dump.

A mind dump is pretty much what it sounds like. You sit yourself down and empty out every thought in your brain. Not only will it help you organize yourself for the upcoming week but it also serves as a release. Most importantly it helps you face your shortcomings which is critical in creating your best life in 2020.

Goal Digging

Often times starting the new year comes with goals that you have been long toying around within your head; which isn’t a bad thing at all. But if your 2020 resolutions included loosing 40 pounds, becoming a millionaire and retiring early in that order then you need a serious wake up call. What I found to be the most effective approach to goals is to set way smaller goals on a monthly basis. Think about it; if you lose four pounds per month that is 48 pounds by December. Smart right?

In my experience, and the results may vary for you, setting five mini goals per month is a great approach. This way you don’t feel overwhelmed by the size of the task (i.e. “I want to land a starring role in the new Jordan Peele blockbuster by end of 2020”). Additionally knocking out these smaller objectives will keep much more enthused to stay in the hunt!

Staying Inspired Is Required

If you want to keep your head in the game then it is a must you stay focused. Sometimes that focus requires a jump start from time to time and that is perfectly normal. Even some of the very top performers in the world go off course for whatever reason but get right back in the zone because they get that one key stimulus of encouragement. This could come anywhere but why not create those for yourself?

While I do find value in vision boards they personally don’t work for me. Frequently these collages are big picture but don’t really communicate all the many steps in between. What I find to be effective is surrounding myself with inspiration. I have photos and a calendar posted in my bathroom; so every time I am in there I am faced with visuals of my goals. I also go to bed most nights listening to motivational podcasts; they are super helpful in keeping positive energy going into the next day. Furthermore I frequently watch documentaries on individuals who have had significant impact in their respective field (I highly suggest Dior And I). These little reminders will add up!

Never Give Up

Yes this is super cliche but if you were to walk away with only one thing that you read thus far this should be it. Simply put either you’ll make time or you’ll make excuses. Life isn’t easy thus you have to keep plugging away. If your momentum is derailed for any reason it is critical you restart right away. Delaying it further will cost you even more time and that is something none of us can buy back. You can do it; your 2020 resolutions are still achievable. I am living proof.

Words by Mr. Martin Jean Founder, Flawless Crowns @IAmMartinJean