By AFRO Staff

New Year’s Day often kicks off a season of self-improvement. 

Around the globe, people of all cultures aim to become a better version of themselves– whether it be through improved diet or better spending habits. But resolutions are just lofty notions to mark a new year if they aren’t propelled by a sure-fire plan, behavioral scientists say. 

This month the AFRO’s special edition is all about making change for the better.

Do you need to break a bad habit or get more sleep?

Erica D. Kelly, a clinical social worker and therapist, spoke with the AFRO about the power of intention and working to make a change.

“There’s something about setting smart goals. [They are] specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely,” said Kelly. 

According to the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, setting a goal is important, but “numerous studies have demonstrated that intention to change behavior alone does not often result in actual behavior change.”

The journal highlights the “intention-behavior gap,” in the article titled,”Goal Setting and Action Planning for Health Behavior Change,” by Ryan R. Bailey, PhD. 

“Simply setting a goal seldom leads to actual behavior change,” says Bailey. “For some, identifying an appropriate goal is difficult, while for others, putting goals into action is the roadblock.”

Bailey notes that it is important to consider “goal characteristics when setting goals and creating action plans that facilitate goal achievement.”

To map out the characteristics of a goal, a person would figure out if they need to break a bad habit to achieve success or develop a new skill set to hit their target. 

A detailed plan of action understanding if the goal is one to be achieved over a short or long period of time. Bailey said that “action plans specify where, when, and how a goal will be implemented.” 

The action plan should be checked and referred to often, with an evaluation towards progress occurring on a weekly basis. In addition to an action plan, a “coping plan” should also be created. 

What will you do when faced with unhealthy food options after a late night at work? How will you juggle a new exercise routine while also getting your children to school on time? 

Having a plan to reach your goal and handle barriers to success is key. So how will you change for the better in the new year? 

Do you have a new goal or one you still haven’t yet achieved? Set your intentions, make your action plan and let us know how you will improve in the new year! 

HED: New year, new you: what’s your resolution? 

Leah Henry, Washington, D.C.

Leah Henry, Washington, D.C.

“I make goals every year, but I wouldn’t say [they’re] resolutions. I’m able to hit most of my goals. Fitness is always a struggle for me. If I can stay committed to fitness, I may see a difference in 2023.”

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Ryan Sprouse, Washington, D.C.

Ryan Sprouse, Washington, D.C

“I want to go out and take more photographs. Doing this I feel I could potentially change how I see my life or [that of] others… it will help me get out of my comfort zone and go places I’ve never been before just to explore. I hope to keep it up, but we shall see.” 

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Jonathan Franklin, Washington, D.C.

Jonathan Franklin, Washington, D.C.

“Being more financially responsible — it’s important that I stick to this because homeownership is a goal of mine going into 2023. By purchasing a home, it’ll allow me to have the ability to form those long-lasting relationships with neighbors and other people in my future community.”

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Alexys Butler, Baltimore

Alexys Butler, Baltimore

“I’ve made a resolution to be less fearful.”

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Danielle Davis, Baltimore

Chey Parker, Washington, D.C.

“I will pause for a quiet mindful moment at least twice a day to support emotional well-being.”

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Radio and TV media personality, Chey Parker, Washington, D.C.

Danielle Davis, Baltimore

“I honestly don’t like calling this a New Year’s resolution, but more so a goal. That’s to be more consistent with therapy. I’ve gained so much from starting therapy for the first time this year and I want to really commit to it in this next year. It’s been a game changer for sure and has really helped me reach new levels in other areas of my life. 2023 is all about healing for me.”

Michelle Richardson and Ron Taylor contributed to this article.

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