New Year, New You!
January 5th, 2019A new year has just begun! Many people have a tradition of setting new year’s resolutions for themselves. Unfortunately, many of us don’t keep them up for more than a month or so. I recommend that instead of these resolutions, we find ways to make gradual changes. One way is to set S.M.A.R.T. goals. For example, rather than saying “I want to lose weight this year” you would set a goal to exercise at least 15 minutes 3 days a week. This is one small step, but by making it easy and being able to accomplish it, you will fuel motivation for more changes. Think about how someone achieves a long term goal such as finishing a college degree or learning how to play piano. Are either of those achievable in a month or two? I doubt it, unless you are a genius! Losing weight, changing your eating habits, or getting into a regular exercise routine is similar in that they all need time and dedication, and incorporated gradually into your lifestyle.
Aside from setting S.M.A.R.T. goals, you can also start tracking your progress and reward yourself along the way. Maybe you could take a calendar and mark a red X on the days when you accomplished your task. For example, if you went to the gym, you would mark that day. Another way is to put a large jar on your kitchen counter, each day you meet your goal, you put a $1 or $5 bill inside. At the end of 3 or 6 months, use that money towards something that will bring you pleasure (but also healthy), such as a massage treatment/facial, or perhaps a weekend getaway. I understand that this is not likely feasible to continue for many years, but by as a few months go by, you will have incorporated this habit into your life and you will likely be able to continue it.
Assess how you feel after adopting a healthier lifestyle. Do you have more energy? Are your moods turning more positive? Do you feel motivated at work? If so, keep going and continue on this path throughout the year.
