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New Year resolutions: How strong are they?

Abu Dhabi - UAE health experts argue that people often fail their resolutions simply because they do not know how to help themselves.

Millions of people around the world set New Year resolutions each year, which they aim to achieve before the clock strikes midnight on December 31.
Whether it is to quit smoking, cut down on social media, or the common resolution of losing weight - setting a goal is a motivating way of improving one's lifestyle. However, UAE health experts argue that people often fail their resolutions simply because they do not know how to help themselves.

Zainab Al Adhami, told Khaleej Times that her resolution for 2017 is to cut down on social media, adding that, "although it has only been a few days, it is incredible how my life has already improved."
The 30-year-old accountant pointed out that social media platforms, including Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram are heavily influencing users negatively.
"These applications are not only wasting our time, but the so called 'influencers' that many of us follow are only pushing us to spend money, because all they do is advertise products, including food, fashion or technology."
She explained that many users would thus argue that the world of social media could often be depicted as a fake reality.
"Recently, a lot of people have suddenly become popular through social media, but they don't seem to send out positive messages that encourage people to better themselves."
"That hour that we drain on social media is an hour wasted in our lives. It is better to make use of our time by spending it with family."
Al Adhami's advice for those wanting to cut down on social media is: "Start by unfollowing influencers that only want to make money and advertise products and particular lifestyles."
"Follow accounts that encourage a healthy living, saving money and family commitment."
Khalifa Al Fahim, senior systems analyst at Adnoc, said what is most important for him is to ensure that 2017 is a year of health.
"Diet and exercise have always been important to me, but I never seemed to be consistent, because quitting is usually the easiest option. I promised myself that I will become a healthier individual this year, break any negative cycles, cut off toxic people, eat better and work out everyday - no excuses."
Ali H Al Madfaei, First-Lieutenant Engineer at Abu Dhabi Police, said his 2017 resolution is to simply be content with his own self.
"This year, I want to live by the motto that 'everything happens for a reason,' and therefore I will avoid taking things personally, whether it is from work, family or everyday encounters," the first-lieutenant engineer at Abu Dhabi Police said.
The Emirati father of two, who works as a chemical, biological, radiological nuclear officer, stressed that being healthy begins with a positive outlook on life.
Al Madfaei's advice is to spend at least 30 minutes each day in a quiet and serene atmosphere, which he believes helps clear a clouded mind. "Finding tranquility and getting away from bustling noises can truly helps lift one's spirit."
"Everyone talks about being healthy, dieting and exercising as resolutions, but for me, I want a healthy mind and soul, because everything begins within."
20 minutes could make or break your resolution
Naser Al Riyami, Emirati psychologist and hypnotherapist, explained that although New Year's resolutions encourage millions of residents in the UAE to achieve their targets, they often fail if they do not plant the objective in their minds.
"I would advice anyone with hefty resolutions to train in the self-help method, such as, taking a class in Neuro Linguistics Psychology (NLP), hypnosis, or to learn and research the strength and virtues listed by positive psychology."
"By simply searching online, one can find these strengths."
Al Riyami pointed out that resolutions are not as complex as they seem, including the resolution of quitting smoking.
"First thing smokers need to realise is that the feeling of urgency will disappear within 20 minutes. This is the case for any emotional state and is known as the 'emotional refractory period,' because all emotions are momentary."
He stressed that emotions fade within time if not retriggered, which is why it is crucial for resolution setters to keep their eye on the prize.  "Whether you are happy, hungry or craving a cigarette, that emotional state will go away within 20 minutes if not retriggered."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com