How to Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions
So you’re ready for the start of a fresh year. You set big health and fitness goals. I hate to be a buzz-kill, but did you know that 88 percent of all New Year’s resolutions end in failure? How can such a positive idea backfire so regularly?
Here are some things to keep in mind to help you be among the 12 percent who stay on track.
Pick things you can achieve on a daily or weekly basis.
Rather than shooting to lose 50 pounds next year, come up with small goals to help you achieve a healthier weight. The smaller things will add up and help you achieve bigger goals. Examples include:
- Drink six glasses of water each day.
- Pack your lunch at least three times a week.
- Eat out for dinner only once a week.
Avoid fad diets.
The weight loss from fad diets is usually drastic and only temporary, and it could place undue strain on your body. It’s important to fit in fun foods and enjoy a variety of options to keep you eating healthy for the rest of your life.
Focus on what you can add, not subtract.
Instead of restricting your intake with calorie or carbohydrate goals, focus on what you can add to your diet. Goals can include:
- Have protein at every meal.
- Aim for five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
When setting fitness goals, pick a race or activity you can work toward.
If you want to get into running, try the couch-to-5K program and sign up for a local 5K to keep yourself motivated. Interested in yoga? Look for a studio in your area and schedule a class every week. Even if you are involved in a certain sport, new forms of exercise can keep you entertained and strong.
Don’t forget self-care.
It is common to set food- and exercise-related goals, but it’s also important to focus on self-care. Set goals to get adequate sleep and rest, and for activities outside your daily routine.
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How to Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions
So you’re ready for the start of a fresh year. You set big health and fitness goals. I hate to be a buzz-kill, but did you know that 88 percent of all New Year’s resolutions end in failure? How can such a positive idea backfire so regularly?
Here are some things to keep in mind to help you be among the 12 percent who stay on track.
Pick things you can achieve on a daily or weekly basis.
Rather than shooting to lose 50 pounds next year, come up with small goals to help you achieve a healthier weight. The smaller things will add up and help you achieve bigger goals. Examples include:
- Drink six glasses of water each day.
- Pack your lunch at least three times a week.
- Eat out for dinner only once a week.
Avoid fad diets.
The weight loss from fad diets is usually drastic and only temporary, and it could place undue strain on your body. It’s important to fit in fun foods and enjoy a variety of options to keep you eating healthy for the rest of your life.
Focus on what you can add, not subtract.
Instead of restricting your intake with calorie or carbohydrate goals, focus on what you can add to your diet. Goals can include:
- Have protein at every meal.
- Aim for five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
When setting fitness goals, pick a race or activity you can work toward.
If you want to get into running, try the couch-to-5K program and sign up for a local 5K to keep yourself motivated. Interested in yoga? Look for a studio in your area and schedule a class every week. Even if you are involved in a certain sport, new forms of exercise can keep you entertained and strong.
Don’t forget self-care.
It is common to set food- and exercise-related goals, but it’s also important to focus on self-care. Set goals to get adequate sleep and rest, and for activities outside your daily routine.
Read more:
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