A Better New' Year’s Resolution

A Better New Year’s Resolution

 As we approach the end of 2021, you may find yourself reflecting on past resolutions and trying to set new goals for 2022.  If you were able to meet last year’s goals…kudos to you.  If not, you’re not alone.  Approximately 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February.  Why is this???  The following are just a few of the common pitfalls:

1.      You want results NOW!    Slow and steady may not seem as exciting, but if you want your changes to be lifelong and healthy you need to ditch the idea of the crash diet and excessive exercise plan.  Instead focus on 1 positive habit per week.

2.     You don’t enjoy the process.   If you look at eating healthy and exercising as a chore, you’ll fail before you even begin. Find a form of movement that you enjoy enough to do CONSISTENTLY.  For nutrition, your goal should be eating whole, unprocessed foods 80% of the time.  Start by aiming for 5 servings of vegetables each day.  You’ll fill up with plenty of fiber and nutrients which your entire body will thank you for.

3.     Track your progress.   Keeping a written log will provide some accountability and can help you plan along the way. Track your exercise and nutrition so you can see where you need improvement along the way.  Your goal?  To do a little better every day. 

4.     Support.  Who are you leaning on for support and accountability?  Some of us can do it alone, but most of us do better if we can lean on someone along the way.  Find a workout or accountability partner or group.  Announce your intentions aloud.  Find like minded souls to support you on the days when it feels harder than it should.  A true journey is full of ups and downs in the road, so be prepared with some backup to help you back up when you falter.

 5.     The biggest reason why most New Year’s resolutions fail: your goal is too vague and you don’t acknowledge WHY you want it.

For example…the number one resolution for the majority of people is: “I want to lose weight”…

How much?  By when?  Why? 

***The more specific you can make your goal and your reasons why, the more likely you are to follow through on it.  Try setting S.M.A.R.T. goals:   Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely