Resolve to Lose Weight...But Don't Forget To Share

Since we’re on the subject of resolutions, I started doing a little research. Not surprisingly, of the top 15 New Year’s resolutions, nearly half deal with health. Here’s the top 15 in order according to Wikipedia:

1.   Lose Weight
2.   Gain Weight
3.   Pay Off Debt/s
4.   Save Money
5.   Get a Better Job
6.   Get Fit
7.   Eat Right
8.   Get a Better Education
9.   Drink less Alcohol
10. Quit Smoking
11. Reduce Stress
12. Take a Trip
13. Volunteer to Help Others
14. Be Less Grumpy
15. Be More Independent

Recent research shows that while 52% of participants in a Resolution study were confident of success with their goals, only 12% actually achieved their goals.

And check it out: men achieved their goal 22% more often when they engaged in goal setting, a system where small measurable goals are used (lose a pound a week, instead of saying "lose weight"), while women succeeded 10% more when they made their goals public and got support from their friends.

Now, I find this very interesting, though I’m really not surprised. What keeps us motivated is so very different than what motivates men, (business managers take note). Of course, it’s always been important to equalize access to the playing field; and once we’re on the field we’re just as competitive as the guys. But for most women, our friends and colleagues, our relationships are supremely important to our success…and it’s just as important to be able to receive in our relationships with each other as it is to give.

For those of us who prefer their goal sharing social-webby, check out the 43 Things website. At 43 Things you can keep your list of goals and share them with others, all in one place. There’s also a fun personality quiz on the site that lets you check off all the stuff you’ve accomplished…and then the site tells you a little bit more about yourself. The people at 43 things say the very act of writing ideas down helps you answer the universal question, “What do I really want to do with my life?” Hey, why not give it a try while you’re waiting for the ball to drop in Times Square?

Then again, if you happen to be a compulsive, Type-A like me, Joe’s Goals might appeal to you. This “project-manager-esque” goal tracker with a Microsoft Project-like interface is cool and it’s a great way to track your successes and failures throughout the year. Code-monkey Ian Smith’s little brainchild even lets you track your vices (like chocolate brownies at 3:00 AM) and you can share your goals with friends. Cool.

This year, remember to share your aspirations and resolutions with your friends, real or virtual. If you’ve always run alone, think about getting a running partner or training buddy. Announce your goals to your mom’s group or book club. Take it to the streets! Odds are, when you do, you’ll be 90% on your way!

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