Ahhhhh, the new year! A fresh start, new beginnings, and time to turn anything negative in your life around! For most of us those new beginnings involve our health and fitness habits. You may want to quit smoking, cut back on alcohol, exercise more, eat better. It's great that we have the intention to get on track with our health. Unfortunately, for most people, those good intentions last a few weeks to a couple of months before dropping back into the old routine again. Why does this happen and how can you keep from losing track of your New Year's resolutions?
First, most of us need to be more SPECIFIC as to what our goals are. I usually hear poeple say "I want to lose weight", "I need to workout more", etc. Instead of being so GENERAL sit down and write out specific actions you will take to reach your goals. Make sure those goals are broken down into reasonable and attainable goals. Also, take the time to write out WHY you want to reach these goals and how you will FEEL once you do. Read over all this info EVERY SINGLE day to keep you on track!
Second, have someone to hold you ACCOUNTABLE to your resolutions. If you try to go it alone it will be easier to give up and cheat! Have one or more people to help you or check in on you to make sure you're doing what you've set out to accomplish. Whether it's a personal trainer to keep you from slacking, a therapist to stop you from smoking, or even friends, family, a support group, etc.
Next, have a PLAN! For example, if you want to eat a healthier diet, plan a shopping list once a week and stick to it. Plan out on every Sunday what you will eat at every meal for the entire week. Also, have a backup plan! In case you start craving a cigarette, for example, have an advanced plan on how you will deal with that craving. You wouldn't run a business without a business plan, so the same goes for following through and being successful with your resolutions.
Lastly, DON'T GIVE UP and don't be hard on yourself if you slip up. We are humans and we make mistakes! You may succumb to the box of Oreos one night or end up smoking a pack of cigarrettes in the course of a day. Just get over it and get back on track ASAP!!
Hopefully, these basic and simple bits of advice can help you accomplish your goals for the New Year. Remember that you're not alone and there are many resources available to you to keep you on track. Feel free to email me with any questions or concerns! Happy New Year!
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