It’s January 7th. Have you already given up on your New Year’s resolutions? Every year, we all go through the same cycles of setting larger-than-life goals, only to forget about them a couple weeks into the New Year. Have you ever stopped to reflect on the reasons why?
It is easy to start off the year thinking that this year will be different than the last. In actuality, it SHOULD be. You should end the year smarter, stronger, wiser, and healthier, but these are things that take time to achieve. When setting your goals, determine what you will do differently to achieve them, but make sure these actions are realistic. Set a big goal, and then set small goals to achieve the big one. Next, set action steps to achieve the small goals. Aiming to lose fifty pounds by the end of the year may sound like a large feat, but when you make a goal to lose four pounds a month, it sounds more attainable. Then, break it down even further, and pinpoint what you need to do differently to lose the four pounds. Do you need to exercise more? Do you need to eat out less? Determine what actions need to be changed.
Make sure that the goals you set are challenging, but achievable. Setting a goal to cook five days a week when you normally eat out seven days a week is a big step. Remember, goals can always be changed as you achieve them. First, try committing to cooking 2-3 days a week. Once that has become a habit, you can then increase to cooking five days a week. What we are trying to achieve is a lifestyle change, not a quick fix, and permanent change takes time. Do not try to do it over night. That causes burnouts and setbacks. While it may seem necessary to set extreme goals, think back to all of the outrageous goals you have made in the past. Did you achieve them? If not, I advise you to start smaller, but keep the big picture in mind.
Lastly, write out your goals. Put them in a place that is visible so it will be a constant reminder of what you are working towards. Then, get to work! This year will be different than the last. I challenge you to make it so.
“One half of knowing what you want is knowing what you must give up before you get it.” ~Sidney Howard
Written by:
Joy Diggs, CPT, MS, RD, LD
Certified Personal Trainer
Registered and Licensed Dietitian
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