New Year, New Me(n)

Like many people, you’re probably planning on becoming a better version of yourself next year. Kudos to you for taking the first step. But maybe you’re worried about ditching your efforts halfway through January. Perhaps you’re determined to get it right this time. Here’s how to do that:

Work on One Thing

Plenty of people cast their net far too wide when they’re setting New Year’s resolutions. They want rock-hard abs, a new job and a trip to a tropical holiday destination – and they want it now! There’s just one problem with that: you have a limited amount of time, attention and willpower at your disposal.

Instead of spreading yourself too thin, choose one goal (like improving your male grooming routine) and focus all your energy on turning it into a reality.

Write Everything Down

When you first set a goal, a jolt of adrenaline courses throughout your body. You’re filled with ambition and determination, and it seems no hurdle is too high to overcome. But it only takes a few days for the finer details of your plan to be cloaked by brain fog.

The solution is simple: write down all your ideas in great detail. Don’t just write that you want to improve your look: say what needs attention. Hairstyle? Clothing? Breath? The more information, the better.

Plan

Many people know how to set goals, but have no idea how to accomplish them. You wouldn’t dream of going on a road trip if you didn’t have directions to your destination, right?

So how will you improve your male grooming routine without a plan? If you want to reduce sweating and walk around with a masculine scent, why not research deodorant and antiperspirant brands?

Make Room for Failure

If you’re pursuing anything important, expect to fail. It’s just a normal part of progress. If you want to get clearer skin, don’t expect the first face wash you use to be perfect. The same goes for buying a body wash.

Who’s to say the first one you find will be the best? There’s nothing wrong with not doing things perfectly the first time around.

Stay Motivated

When it comes to seeing resolutions through to the end, the hardest part isn’t the beginning – it’s the middle. After a few months of trying out face washes, body sprays and shaving creams, you might hit a brick wall and no longer feel like going on.

What will keep you motivated when you hit a low? Is it positive reinforcement, an accountability partner, or tracking your progress? No one knows you better than you know yourself, so be honest about what will encourage you when you don’t see the point of tweaking your grooming ritual.

If you don’t manage to start right at the beginning of the year, don’t beat yourself. Self-improvement isn’t restricted to certain parts of the year. Whether your goal is to nip and tuck your grooming ritual or save up for a holiday, success will be knocking at your door before you know it.

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