Tips for achieving New Year’s Resolutions
- Make only one resolution -- Success is greater when people channel their energy into changing just one aspect of their behavior.
- Plan ahead -- Don't wait until New Year's Eve to think about your resolution.
- Make it personal -- Don’t run with the crowd and go with the usual resolutions. Instead think about what you really want out of a healthy or fitness related lifestyle.
- Be specific -- Think through exactly what you are going to do, where you are going to do it, and at what time. For example, instead of saying that you will go running two days of the week, tell yourself that you will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5 pm. Instead of saying "lose weight" be specific on how much weight, and how you will do it -- visiting a nutritionist, or a Weight Loss center like Weight Watchers to put you on a nutrition plan.
- Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals. Focus on creating goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time based (SMART). For example, instead of thinking ‘I want to lose weight’, focus on creating bite-sized, measurable goals for each week, such as have nutritionist or weight loss center create nutrition plan, clean out the cupboards of all unhealthy foods and replace them with fruits and vegetables. Or visit local gym/fitness center and have them tailor a fitness plan for me. Walk 2 -3 days per week instead of watching TV, etc. Map out the step-by-step mini-goals that will slowly but surely take you to where you want to be, make a note of them in a diary, and stick to the plan.
The best way for successful weight loss resolutions is to try and be realistic and set your goal at 10% of body weight loss in one year -- this is often easily attainable and reasonable and most importantly, can make you a New Year's Resolution success!
Of course not, because not all commitment levels to anything are the same but I will tell you that everyone can lose weight and everyone could relatively simply lose weight. Weight loss is about consistent commitment to small goals everyday. It is about consistency. You must consistently eat less than your body needs on a daily basis for a long enough period of time to lose the weight that you feel you need to lose. When everything is right on track you will lose on average of one pound per week.
Continue Learning about Healthy Resolutions
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.