Happy New Year!
2012 is officially here and that “new year feeling” is in the air! You know, that feeling of having a fresh start, of having a brand new planner to start filling in, and of having a New Year’s resolution you’re ready to keep?
If you’re anything like me, by the time February hits that “new year feeling” begins to fade and so does the motivation to keep up with any and all resolutions. In an attempt to beat that February hump and hold strong to my goals for the year I crafted a New Years Resolution tracker to monitor my progress. Plus, it adds a glittery flair to my normally oh-so-boring desk!
What you need:
- A killer New Year’s resolution that you want to keep. Mine is to appreciate the little things by keeping a daily highlight journal.
- An index card file box
- 365 lined index cards
- Pen
- 12 photographs / magazine clippings
- Scissors
- Mod Podge
- Glitter
- Paint brush
- Plastic cup
2. While the glitter is drying, select 12 photos or magazine clippings to use as monthly dividers. Choose photos that will motivate you to stick to your resolution. For instance, if your goal is to exercise daily why not use a photo of Jillian Michaels or that ultra complicated yoga move you hope to master one day! Cut the photos or clippings down so that they’re just slightly bigger than your notecards. You want to be able to see them, but you still want them to fit in your chic new tracker. Since my resolution is to appreciate the little things, I chose photos of important people and places in my life.
3. After applying another coat of glitter, it’s time to start date writing. Turn on your favorite episode of Gossip Girl and settle in for some calendar making. When your hand starts to cramp around the time you hit July, take a little break and just remember that this New Years Resolution Tracker will last you for the next ten years - totally worth it! Or, if you don’t have the time to commit up front, you can simply add the date to each note card as you go along throughout the year.
4. Once the glittery exterior of your tracker has dried, it’s time to assemble. Use your photos to separate the notecards by month, and place them all in your brand new New Years Resolution Tracker.
5. Each day, simply write a brief summary of how well you did. If your resolution is to save money, make a note of any major savings or how you successfully avoided the temptation of a gorgeous window display. Make note on the days you don’t do so well too. We all slip up sometime and it’s easier to avoid in the future if you know your weaknesses.
At the end of 2012, take a look back at your progress and start brainstorming the ultimate resolution of 2013. Change out the monthly divider photos to fit your new resolution and enjoy that fresh start all over again!
