Making Changes that last:  Fresh and Healthy Resolutions

Make your healthy New Year last all year! 

Every year after the holidays, we resolve to take control of our lives. We want to get past any overindulgence of the season or the past year. We strive to start anew. Diet, exercise and better general health are usually high on resolution lists. In January gym memberships and diet program enrollments are at an all time high. Alas, by the endof January, many of us are back to our old ways. How do we avoid the pitfalls of returning to old habits?

Set realistic goals:
When deciding on your New Year’s resolutions make sure they are achievable. If you’re serious about change, the first step is to set realistic goals. Making unrealistic or inflexible resolutions is one of the top reasons that so many people abandon their plan before the year is out.

Create a step by step plan:
Resolutions are merely a starting point. Breaking your resolution into small manageable steps that can be repeated year round is one key to success. Focus on day to day behaviors that will help you to achieve your long term goal. Choose simple activities that you can track each day or each week.

Share your goals with friends or family:
Don’t keep your resolutions to yourself. Enlist the support of friends or family. It’s much easier to keep on track with your workout schedule if you have a buddy. Sharing can help you to feel more accountable for your behavior and therefore more motivated to achieve your goal.

Stay flexible:
Flexibility is another key to success. Expect that your plan will change. When there are occasional setbacks, be willing to make adjustments as needed to get back on track.