A new year, a new you- that is what we are told to focus on in those early January days. But what does this mean? It’s different for everybody and usually stems from any disappointment we may have carried over from the previous calendar year. Often resolutions revolve around appearance, finances and/or behaviours. I know as well as any, that resolutions are often tough to follow through on, but have learned over the years that success all has to do with being realistic about what you intend to achieve.

Giving up a certain behaviour in the new year is not easy, but there are steps to ensure follow through and results. The first is to be honest with yourself about what truly needs to be eradicated from, or added to, your daily patterns. For instance, if you are a smoker and have witnessed the terrible long- term effects of smoking, chances are you are looking to kick the habit. Honesty about a need for change is primary to making this happen.

Next, setting a timeline in place is key. It’s tough to quit a set habit or behaviour over night. It, however, is not impossible. If you know you are more successful with the “quit cold turkey” approach, go for it. For the rest of us, a realistic time-frame should be set. It’s best to physically map out a timeline on a calendar, and make notes as the days pass about your successes and the steps you are making towards reaching your goal. The physical act of keeping track and referring to a visual, will make the process of changing behaviour a part of daily life.

Everyone needs a little support. If it’s smoking that you’re focused on quitting, being in touch with people who are equipped with the tools to assist you and who may have gone through the quitting process, is important. Such individuals can coach you and simply give encouraging words on the tough days. At Vape4Change, you can find this support to help you stick to a resolution this new year that revolves around kicking the smoking habit. They have on site counselors to guide you towards becoming a healthier you, and the tools to help you transition from smoking to vaping in an affordable way.

Regardless of your set resolutions for 2019, the most important thing to remember is to be kind to yourself and not be too hard on yourself if the changes made don’t come as quickly as planned. A timeline is key, but sometimes unforeseen challenges arise and altering a time-frame is necessary. Forgive yourself, remember you’re human, seek the right support, and keep going.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2019!