Happy & Healthy New Year

Yes, it is that time again, time to bring in a new year, a happy, healthy new year!   For many this is the time that New Year’s Resolutions are set, in fact about 40 to 45% of Americans make one or more resolutions each year.  Among those topping the list are resolutions about weight loss, exercise and stopping to smoke.  Unfortunately as time goes on, those successful at maintaining their goals become fewer and fewer:  75% maintain their goals past the first week, 71% past 2 weeks, 64% after one month and 46% maintain after 6 months.  And after a year, that number declines to around 10%.  With those kinds of statistics, it almost seems pointless to even think about setting New Year’s resolutions!

On the bright side, research has shown that making resolutions versus not making any resolution is beneficial.  And with some simple strategies, it is possible to stick with those New Year’s resolutions:

1. Be realistic – the best way to fail is to make a goal that is unrealistic or unattainable.  For example, if you think that you eat too many fried foods in a week, do not say I will never eat fried foods again.  Instead say I will only eat fried foods a couple of times each week.  And continue to work toward your overall weekly goal of eating less fried foods every week.
2. Make small goals - big goals often seem too far out of reach or difficult to accomplish.  Short term goals are easier to keep and small accomplishments will help keep you motivated.  Instead of focusing on losing 40 pounds, focus on losing that first 5, then move on.  Think about these goals as year round, not just at the first of the year.  Resolutions are set in one day but it takes many tiny steps that happen throughout the year to reach your goals! 
3. Write it down – commit to your resolutions by putting it down on paper such as a notebook or journal.  This allows you to reflect back to your plans and write about your successes and obstacles throughout the year.
4. Talk about it – don’t keep it a secret.  Share with your friends and family members who will be there to support you as you change yourself for the better or improve your health.  Find a buddy who shares similar resolutions and work to motivate one another.
5. Reward yourself – this doesn’t mean with a tub of ice cream or a large pepperoni pizza!  Instead, celebrate your success by rewarding yourself with something you enjoy that does not contradict your resolution.  Maybe treat yourself to a new outfit, or a movie with a friend or day at the spa for a massage or pampering!
6. Don’t be too hard on yourself – Obsessing over the occasional slip up will not help you achieve your goal.  Do the best you can every day and take it one day at the time.  Remember to be flexible and expect that your plan can and probably will change from time to time.
7. Stick to it – it typically takes about 21 days for a new activity, such as exercising, to become a habit and 6 months for it to become a part of your personality.  Before you know it, your new healthful habits will become second nature.
8. Never give up – if your New Year’s resolution seems to be running out of steam, don’t despair and don’t just say, oh well, another failed resolution.  Start over again!  Who says you can’t make a New Year’s resolution any time of the year.