You’ve sipped your last bit of eggnog, the cookie cutters have been tucked away, and the gift shopping is finally over. The holidays are a pleasant memory now, and it’s time to focus on your goals for the new year. If you made New Year’s resolutions in the past, but gave up halfway through January, you may want to reconsider how you set your goals and whether you’re trying to bite off a little more than you can comfortably chew.
To help you stick to your goals this year–whether that’s losing weight, eating healthier, or making any other any healthy lifestyle change–Health Advocate offers these tips on how you can stick with your New Year’s resolutions.
Be clear about your goals. If you’re looking to shed pounds, don’t say, “I will work out more.” A better resolution might be, “I will lift weights twice a week and walk 30 minutes during my lunch break.” If you have a specific goal in mind and can quantify it, you are more likely to follow it.
Think of it as an accomplishment. Have a positive mindset and frame your goals in a positive light. For example, don’t say, “I will stop drinking caffeine, including coffee and colas.” This can make you feel like you’re depriving yourself of something you enjoy. A more positive attitude about your goal would be to say, “If I need a pick-me-up during the day, I will drink a cup of tea instead of grabbing a Coke or cup of coffee.”
Do what you think is right for you. Your resolutions should revolve around what you value, not what someone else thinks you should do. Make your goals for you—not for someone else. Don’t say, “My wife thinks I’m lazy and I should exercise more.” Take a positive outlook and say, “I will run the treadmill 30 minutes each day because it makes me feel more energized.”
Don’t think big. If you’re looking to add more physical activity in your life, take it slow. You’re not training for a marathon. Aim to take a 30-minute walk each day.
Make resolutions that you’ll enjoy. We can all benefit from making our lives happier. For example, resolve to carve out more time to read, go to the movies or spend more time with your family and friends. This can increase your happiness and well-being.
Get support. Tell people close to you such as family and friends about your goals. If they are supportive, they will help cheer you on the path to success.
It’s resolution time! Be committed to the resolutions you choose. If your employer has given you access to a wellness program through Health Advocate, be sure to give us a call! Our wellness coaches can help you reach your lifestyle goals, such as fitness, healthy eating, de-stressing and weight loss.
