If you have a cynical attitude toward health-related New Year’s resolutions, you’re not alone. For many of us, they can bring up feelings of failed attempts and negative self-talk. There’s an explanation for this. If you don’t set the right intentions for the New Year and outline clear goals, it’s difficult to follow through and actually lose those 10 pounds or kick that late night snacking habit. These aren’t good reasons to give up on the concept of “a fresh start” in the New Year.
It’s easy and exciting to start off strong, but it’s also pretty easy to fall back into old routines and old habits. Here are a few tips on how to rethink your health resolutions so they’re associated more with success and hope instead of defeat and cynicism.
1. Set realistic, specific goals.
Let’s use the common goal of “losing weight” to outline what I mean by realistic and specific goals. Suppose you said,
This year, my resolution is to look great in a swimsuit.
How easy do you think that would be to stick to? How do you know when you’ve been successful? Why not try something like this instead:
My goal for this year is to lose 15 pounds by June 1st. I’ll do this in a healthy way by fueling my body with nourishing foods, avoiding things like fried foods that make me feel bad, doing exercises and activities that make me feel stronger and more confident, and surrounding myself with positivity and encouragement.
Can you see the difference between the two resolutions? The second gives a clear timeline and tactics for accomplishing the goal. It’s also realistic, whereas the first goal, “great in a swimsuit” could be interpreted in a number of ways. You could, of course, take this even further and outline a more detailed plan to include meal plans, favorite recipes, exercises and milestones.
2. Visualize this goal.
You may have heard about visualization. Before you roll your eyes and scroll to number 3, hear me out. There’s a reason top executives, athletes and the like use tools like visualization to help them achieve their goals. If practiced with the right mind set, visualization can help you stay on track and positive when faced with obstacles that might impede your desired outcome.
The key to visualization is consistency. Consistently visualize yourself working efficiently and effortlessly toward accomplishing what you’ve set out to. Visualize the way you will feel — happy, motivated, accomplished — as each step you take brings you closer to your goal. When you’re feeling discouraged, imagine yourself making huge strides and think of the joy and sense of accomplishment the progress will bring you. Practice this daily, if needed, to stay motivated and on track.
3. Be focused.
Creating new health habits can be difficult and takes time, consistency and effort. Don’t overdo it by setting too many resolutions at once. Choose one or two that are most important to you and that will have the most positive outcome in your life. If it helps, recruit support to help keep you focused and inspired.
What are your health resolutions for 2016? Share in the comments below!
