Whether this is your first year making a new year’s resolution, or you’ve been setting the same goals year after year – we all know that keeping them can be a challenge. And despite our good intentions, most resolutions last for only a few weeks. If you’re struggling to keep your resolutions this year- keep going! Here are some tips to help you stay on track.
#1 Be realistic: don’t get caught up on a date
It can be tempting to set a goal that makes you feel like you need to turn your whole life around. New year, new you right?! Not quite. If your goal requires you to make big changes to your routine, it’s going to be hard to stick with. Set small realistic goals and think about what you can do to improve your health one step at a time. You don’t have to hit the gym for 3 hours every day this week or drop 10 pounds by the end of next week. A better option? Try adding 10 minutes of walking to your morning routine or eating healthier snacks. Think- New year. Better you!
#2 Set SMART goals: don’t be ambiguous
It’s difficult to measure success if you aren’t specific about what you want to achieve. Rather than thinking, “I want to exercise more,” take a moment to think about what this really looks like. The best way to do this is by setting SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time Sensitive.
A SMART goal looks like this: “By the end of this week I will exercise for a total of 3 hours.” Not only is this specific, but it’s also realistic and attainable. Set aside time to think about your goals and write them down.
#3 Find accountability: surround yourself with a support team
Accountability doesn’t mean that you have to host a friends and family intervention every week to review your success. There are numerous ways to help stay accountable. For example, if you’re less motivated to exercise alone, try buddying up with a friend or joining a group class. There’s also countless online forums and social groups with people that have similar goals and challenges that can support you. Whatever you decide to do, set yourself up for success and be proactive to find the help you need.
#4 Nourish yourself: don’t neglect your body
Feeling sluggish a few days into your low-carb diet? Can’t stop noticing a pain in your back after a lengthy gym session? Your body is an amazing, self-preserving machine. Listen to the signs it tells you. And don’t take what it has to say for granted. If you don’t feel just quite right, more often than not, there’s a reason. Whatever your resolution may be, don’t starve your body of what it needs to succeed and be healthy. Make sure you are eating enough, resting enough, providing the proper balance of nutrients and taking note of any physical pain you’re experiencing. If you have concerns, have a chat with your doctor.
#5 Make time for you: practice self-love
Above all, don’t forget to give yourself grace. Let’s face it, we all make mistakes and nobody is perfect. Take time out of your day to process your feelings and clear your mind. Even if you haven’t kept with your resolutions or you missed a week or two – be kind to yourself. Move forward and slay your goals the next week. If not then, the week after that. Remember at the end of the day, it’s important to be happy with the person you see in the mirror and these resolutions are set to better yourself – not as a reason to be hard on yourself.
For more self-care tips, read Why “you time” is more important than you think
About Courtney
Courtney is Persona’s Vice President of Nutrition. Courtney hails from Bastyr University, having extensive knowledge of holistic healing and whole foods. Prior to joining Persona, she worked as a wellness coach and nutrition consultant, helping people succeed in their various health endeavors.
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This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information from this article for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this article.
