Many people see the start of a new year as an opportunity to hit big goals:lose 10 pounds, run a marathon, or hit the gym every day at sunrise. Such goals, especially without a plan on how to achieve them, often fade from memory in the spring. Here are three things to keep in mind when making New Year's resolutions for 2019:“Make an action plan. Take small steps. Stay positive.”
Make an action plan
Create personal goals based on what you can do to take action. Set an actionable goal of exercising three times a week and eating a piece of fruit after a meal instead of a high-fat dessert. Determine in advance what success looks like for you. Otherwise, how do you know when you've reached it?
Determine the reasons for New Year's resolutions. Is your ultimate goal to feel better so you can be more present for your kids? If so, it's not the number on the scale, but how you feel after making lifestyle changes. The more conscious your approach, the greater the chance that you will follow a healthier lifestyle in the long term.
Consider making lifestyle changes until mid-January to avoid stress. Give yourself time to create a regular schedule so you can slowly incorporate healthy lifestyle changes as you go along.
Take small steps
Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to improving your health. Start with a small change and build up from there. You can start with something as simple as eating an extra serving of fruit or vegetables a day.
Focus on creating a lifestyle change rather than a short term diet change. Fast diets are not sustainable and can lead to disordered eating and unhealthy relationships with food. Instead, focus on healthy foods that you can add to your diet rather than foods that you want to eliminate.
Stay positive
Do what makes you happy. There's no point in adding tofu and kale to your plate for good health if you don't like it. Eat nutritious foods you enjoy and choose physical activities you enjoy. You will be more successful if you maintain your healthier lifestyle.
Do not give up. Every new day is a new opportunity to focus on your goals and appreciate your achievements.
