Making Resolutions Stick

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Then, in a moment of revelation, I felt God had given me the answer. The moment I let go and asked for help I felt a divine connection-I was flooded with a sense of joy and happiness I had never experienced before. Filled with this spiritual joy, I no longer craved as much food or nicotine. When I felt tension and painful emotions building, I found I could instantly go to God, ask for help, and receive an infusion of joy and grace to get me through the difficult moments. I even got help with a job-right after I got down on my knees, the phone rang and an employer hired me to do a project! Sound miraculous and unbelievable? Yes, it is! What happened to me may sound amazing, but it is true. With the power of God, miracles happen.

You do not have to pray in any particular way-just ask God for help (or your Higher Power, Allah, or whatever name you feel in faith). Then, with God as your partner, you are given the power to do your part, to learn about "normal, healthy" eating and being active, to cope with difficult experiences, and to find joy and grace in your life. It sounds very simple to go to God for help, but most people find it very hard to admit they have a problem they cannot solve on their own. It is easier when you realize that God created you, and you're already in this life together-all that's necessary is for you to acknowledge God, and seek divine assistance.

Please closely consider what I am saying to you: Behind most negative habits and desperate needs are desires to relieve tension and anxiety, to get more energy and feel happier. You may have learned to find relief through overeating, smoking, drinking, procrastinating, or other unhealthy means. If you suddenly and completely withdraw all of your methods of comfort and joy in a sudden crescendo of New Year's resolutions, then you'll really be in a bind. In a few days you will feel deprived and shocked, down, nervous, anxious--and then guilty from failing so thoroughly again. So don't do it!

Here's what to do instead:

1. Make only one New Year's Resolution: To ask God for help.

2. DO NOT give up any negative behaviors yet; let God help fill you with spiritual joy and happiness as often as possible. Then slowly over time, the habits and self-destructive behaviors will subside. Guaranteed.

3. Spend time and energy increasing joy and happiness in your life: Read spiritual and religious books (and inspirational articles on Beliefnet), bone up on nutrition and learn ways to move that make you feel good. Go for walks, dance to the radio, soak in hot baths, call or visit friends, express your feelings through writing or good conversation, be with children, volunteer to help someone else, surround yourself with nature and beautiful, simple things. Be active in life, and see God everywhere, in action.

You can do all of these things on your own, in partnership with God, but it really helps to join with others. It's so good to have someone to talk to and share ideas, feelings, and experiences. If you like the idea of having company as you explore this approach to change, join a fitness or stretch class at your church or temple, or a local school, hospital or recreation center. Attend a workshop or retreat as soon as possible. Or get a walking or yoga group going at work, during lunchtime or on breaks.

It could also be very helpful to do some strategic planning, such as planning your daily food intake and scheduling physical, emotional and spiritual activities. Make time to talk to friends. Plot available time to workout, play or dance. Find moments to pray or meditate, asking God for help throughout the day and evening. Having order and structure in your life, in partnership with God, will allow you to have a consistent feeling of safety and resolve. You will be able to keep the momentum this time, not just make a resolution at the beginning of a new year.

Remember that by surrendering to God on a regular basis, you will relieve yourself of great tension and anxiety. By asking God for help, you share some of the burden and avail yourself of the greatest power and energy there is. Then, with spiritual grace and joy, you'll feel so much better you won't need any self-destructive addictions. With God as your partner, everything goes well and miracles happen all the time. Then, you'll really have a Happy New Year!

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