Image courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

A lot of us make new year's resolutions. Are you one of them? An often cited statistic is that over 80% of resolutions fail by February. Yet, so many of us persist with this habit of choosing the first day in January as our date to begin.

Instead of counting down, why not start now?

To begin, begin. William Wordsworth

Why wait, I ask? The new year is just a moment in time. We place too much pressure on the day; too much pressure on ourselves to start things at the new year.

My suggestion is to take that pressure off and do one thing today that will start your change.

It doesn't have to be big. It doesn't have to be complete. In fact, change is easier and more likely to stick if we start small.

So, what are the things you can do today that will give you a headstart come January 1?

Want to exercise more?

Don’t drive around for 20 minutes to get a parking bay close to the shops

Instead park further away and walk the extra steps.

Want to lose weight?

Don’t restrict yourself completely over the festive season

Instead say no to the extra serving (or two) of dessert.

Want to reduce your alcohol intake?

Don’t be a party pooper

Instead wait an extra hour before pouring that first drink of the day.

Want to read more books?

Don’t flop on the couch in front of Netflix

Instead swap one show for an hour of reading.

Want to save more money?

Don’t avoid the holiday sales altogether

Instead shop mindful and say no to one impulse buy.

You can still partake in all the festivities of the season whilst making one or two small changes. Today. Not tomorrow. Not on the first day of the new year. Today.

So, what's your Today Resolution?