New Year...New You? The truth about New Year Resolutions.

Many people will make new years resolutions this year, but less than half will keep them after a few months. Personally, I am not a big fan of the word resolution, since it means to resolve a problem, therefore if you don't resolve it you FAIL. Instead, set a goal, something you can work towards to become a better person. Many of you have health goals you wish to accomplish this year and with a little planing and hard work, I'm confident you can reach them. 


When making goals, it is important to create a S.M.A.R.T. one:


Specific- I'm sorry, but stating a goal vague as "I'm going to lose weight" is setting yourself up for failure. Unless pixie dust will be sprinkled and you will instantly lose weight(doubtful) there needs to be a specific plan of action in place. Setting goals such as: "I will eat 5 small meals a day" "I will eat a fruit or vegetable with every meal" or "I will walk 20 minutes during my lunch break" will help to accomplish weight-loss, and you will feel better during the process, I promise you.


Measurable- Choose a goal which can be measured, this way you will know when the goal is achieved and can create a new goal. This can also help if you are not reaching your goal and it needs to be reevaluated and modified. It usually takes 3 weeks to create a habit and 6 months to adopt this habit as part of your permanent lifestyle. Most times this takes several attempts so don't get discouraged, instead learn what works and what doesn't and attempt again. 


Accountable- Support with your goal is extremely important for success. Hold yourself accountable by stating the goal to a spouse, partner, friend, relative, co-worker, your personal trainer, an online support group, or yourself. Make sure that this is a complete statement with EXACTLY what you are working on. In  addition, this goal should be written down and put somewhere you will see it, which makes it no longer a thought, but an action.


Realistic- Pick a goal that will work for you. If you will not have time to walk during most lunch breaks, well than THIS IS NOT A GOOD GOAL FOR YOU! Pick something that you can and WILL put into your life. Now this may take a little rearranging, planning, and yes most likely some failed attempts, but if you start with a small and attainable goal, you can build on it with time.


Timely- Pick a specific date you will begin working on your goal(I have a strange feeling many of you are thinking January 1st). If your goal has more than one stage (for example, walk 2ce a week then increase to 3 times, etc.) pick dates ahead of time to advance stages.

~Good luck with all of your GOALS this year and let me know if you need any help. Wishes for a Happy and Healthy 2011 from Workout for Wellness Inc.!~