ChatGPT and Bard can help you create sustainable New Year's Resolutions
The confetti has settled, the champagne flutes are rinsed, and a fresh year stretches before us, ripe with possibility. We're armed with resolutions, grand pronouncements of the changes we'll make, the habits we'll forge, the lives we'll finally lead.
But by February, a familiar chill sets in. Motivation wanes, the gym membership gathers dust, and that extra serving of kale sits untouched in the crisper drawer. Why does this happen? And more importantly, how can we avoid it?
The Culprits Behind Resolution Reversal
Several factors contribute to our well-intentioned plans falling by the wayside:
1. Unrealistic Goals:
We set the bar impossibly high, aiming for a marathon when we can barely jog around the block. Unsurprisingly, discouragement sets in, and we abandon ship.
2. Lack of Specificity:
Vague aspirations like "be healthier" or "get organized" lack the actionable steps needed to translate into real change. We need a roadmap, not just a destination.
3. Lack of Planning:
We get swept up in the excitement of a new year without considering the practicalities. How will we fit our goals into our existing routines? What resources do we need? Without a clear plan, our resolutions become vague wishes rather than concrete actions.
4. All or Nothing Thinking:
We fall into the trap of believing that any deviation from our perfect plan is a complete failure. This black-and-white thinking discourages us from getting back on track after a slip-up, leading to abandonment altogether.
5. Insufficient Support:
We embark on our resolutions alone, often neglecting to enlist the help of friends, family, or even technology. Having a support system can provide encouragement, accountability, and valuable insights to keep us moving forward.
The Power of Habit Formation
In a previous blog post, I explored the transformation of New Year's resolutions into SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). While this approach is crucial for setting clear and attainable objectives, I've realized that it's just the first step in a larger journey. To truly achieve these goals, we must distill them into daily habits. It's these small, consistent actions that pave the way to lasting change and help us move beyond the common pitfalls of abandoned resolutions.
Forming new habits is not just about reaching short-term milestones; it's about creating a foundation for long-term success. By starting small, celebrating each step of progress, and building gradually, we can turn our aspirations into habitual behaviors that move us beyond the common pitfalls of abandoned resolutions and toward our ultimate goals.
I've found invaluable insights in Atomic Habits by James Clear a book I revisit at the start of each year or when driving change in my life. The Huberman Lab Podcast also offers a fascinating episode on the science of making and breaking habits.
While we often associate habits with health and wellness, like exercising more or eating healthier, the concept of habit formation extends far beyond. Every goal, whether it's changing careers, improving relationships, traveling more, or learning a new skill, boils down to the formation of new habits.
For career changes, habits might include networking, applying to new positions, and learning new skills. For travel, it could mean setting aside money each month, keeping in touch with friends for potential travel companions, researching destinations, and planning experiences. In each case, consistency and diligence are key.
To maximize their effectiveness, new habits should seamlessly integrate into your existing routine. Incorporating a new activity might require reshuffling your schedule, delegating tasks at home or work, or even discontinuing activities that no longer serve your new objectives. While it can be challenging to say no to commitments that have become a part of your life, remember that time is a finite resource. Prioritizing activities that propel you toward your desired future is essential for making meaningful progress.
Balancing your time and commitments is key to creating a sustainable routine that supports your new habits and goals.
AI can be your secret weapon to crush those resolution struggles
As a former program manager, I know the struggle of turning big dreams into tiny, schedule-friendly steps. And that's exactly why most resolutions die by February. But this year, things are different! AI has entered the chat, ready to be your personalized coach.
I jumped into using OpenAI ChatGPT 4.0 and Google Bard with Gemini to set up New Year's resolutions, break them down into goals and activities, and even work out the habits I needed to form. They also helped me fit these activities into my busy life.
Check out my video where I put ChatGPT and Bard to the test with the same challenges, like turning "learn photography" into real goals, activities, and habits.
In the video, you'll see it's my first time using both. One of my goals this year is to be less of a perfectionist and just go with the flow. I used simple prompts, and the results were amazing. Just think how much better it could be with personalized prompts!
Here's what I discovered:
ChatGPT: The straight-shooter, laying out clear, structured plans with multiple tactical options. Think of detailed roadmaps to success.
Bard: The curious coach, igniting my motivation with engaging questions and helping me discover resolutions I didn't even know I craved.
I've been using ChatGPT for a while, and it's great for boosting my creativity and getting things done. But Bard's new to me, and I'm interested in how it makes me think differently. I'm still learning the best way to use it, but I'm excited about what I'm discovering.
Both are powerful allies, but the choice is yours! Head over to my video to see them in action and decide which AI coach best suits your journey.
Remember, change is a marathon, not a sprint. Be kind to yourself, celebrate the small wins, and don't be afraid to change your plans if you need to. With the help of AI and a focus on building lasting habits, your resolutions might just make it past February this year.
So, let's raise a glass (of water, of course!) to a year of small changes, lasting habits, and the future of AI-powered wellness. Here's to making 2024 the year we finally stick to our resolutions and thrive!
What are your thoughts? Share your resolution struggles and triumphs in the comments below!
Cheers to a healthier, happier you!
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