Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
NOW that we are in 2024, many people are thinking about what they want to achieve in the New Year.
Some of them have already set themselves goals as their New Year’s resolutions on what they intend to achieve.
We spoke to some Zimbabweans who shared their stories of success and failures with their resolutions and what they learned from their experiences.
Mrs Fellunah Muswere from Bulawayo, a firm believer in the power of resolutions, said they help her to plan ahead and stay motivated.
She was able to accomplish one of her biggest dreams last year, having a white wedding.
“At the beginning of each year I come up with resolutions and I have found that it helps me to plan for the future as well as motivates me to attain certain goals,” said Mrs Muswere.
“For example, one of my resolutions for 2023 was to have a white wedding and I achieved that. There are other resolutions I made and I managed to achieve them.”
Mrs Muswere however, admitted that she did not accomplish all her resolutions.
She said some of them may take longer than expected and she will therefore carry them over to this year.
“There are some resolutions which I made in 2023 which I did not achieve, and I will move them to 2024. In the past I have noticed that some of my resolutions don’t get fulfilled in the given year hence I now move such resolutions to the following year,” said Mrs Muswere.
She also shared some tips for couples that want to set resolutions together.
Mrs Muswere said it is important to have a common vision and work as a team. She said having a supportive partner can make a big difference in achieving one’s goals.
“For couples it helps to set resolutions together so that you both work towards achieving the same goals. If a couple is on the same page on what they want to achieve they can work together towards making their plan a success,” said Mrs Muswere.
“If there is no unity and common purpose then spouses will pull in different directions. In a family set up there is also a need to incorporate family members in resolutions that involve everyone.”
Mrs Muswere said resolutions should be realistic and achievable. She said it is good to have dreams but not to the point of being unrealistic.
Mrs Muswere said setting too many resolutions can also be counter-productive as it can lead to frustration and disappointment.
“I have also noticed that resolutions should be reasonable and within our means. It’s okay to dream, but not beyond your capabilities,” she said.
“Setting many resolutions can also be a problem because one will end up trying to achieve so many targets and the year will come to an end without achieving any of them.”
Another Bulawayo resident, Ms Faith Dube has a different approach to resolutions. She said she does not make a list of them at the start of the year, but rather sets targets along the way as the year progresses.
Ms Dube said these targets are based on her needs and opportunities that arise.
She said she prefers to focus on short-term goals that are more achievable.
“When a New Year begins I don’t necessarily sit down to compile a list of New Year resolutions as I plan along the way. This way, I have realised that I’m able to set targets which actually come to pass,” said Ms Dube.
“If an opportunity rises I may set a target which I want to achieve maybe in the next three years to come.”
Social scientist Reverend Muiti Sibanda said there is no right or wrong way of making resolutions as long as they serve the purpose of improving one’s life in some way.
He said the process of making resolutions is a valuable opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth.
Rev Muiti said the purpose of making New Year’s resolutions is to set goals and intentions for the upcoming year with the aim of improving one’s life.
The process provides an opportunity for individuals to reflect on the past year, identify areas for personal growth or change and commit to making positive changes in the coming year.
Rev Muiti also offered some steps that can help one to achieve their resolutions.
“Come up with a detailed plan outlining the steps needed to achieve each resolution. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks that are attainable,” he said.
“Stay accountable and share resolutions with friends or family members and ask them to hold you accountable. Consider finding an accountability partner or joining a support group to stay motivated.”
Rev Muiti said people should track their progress and put themselves to task.
“Keep track of your progress by maintaining maybe a diary, using apps or setting regular check points to assess how well you are sticking to your plan. Also be open to adjusting goals and plans as needed,” he said.
“The world and everything around us is dynamic and not static. Life circumstances may change and it’s important to be adaptable while staying focused on the end goal.”
Rev Muiti said making resolutions is not only about setting goals but also about celebrating the achievements and successes of the past year.
He said this can help to boost one’s morale and confidence as they face the new challenges and opportunities of the New Year.
He said people should acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of their lives and be grateful for what they have.
Rev Muiti said this can help to create a sense of happiness and satisfaction while reducing stress and anxiety.
He said people should also learn from the errors, mistakes, failures and shortcomings of the previous year and use them as opportunities for improvement and growth.
Rev Muiti said people should not dwell on the negative aspects of their lives but rather focus on the positives.
He said people should also forgive themselves and others for any wrongs or hurts that may have occurred in the past year and let go of any grudges or resentments.
This, Rev Muiti said, can help to heal any emotional wounds and create a peaceful and harmonious environment.
He said making resolutions is a chance to start afresh and embrace the New Year with optimism and enthusiasm.
Rev Muiti said people should be excited and curious about the New Year and be open to new experiences and possibilities.
“People should also be flexible and adaptable to any changes or challenges that may arise and be ready to face them with courage and resilience,” he said. — @DubeMatutu.
Online Reporter