How to Keep Your New Year's Resolution

Many people set New Year’s resolution to get rid of old habits in order to become healthier. There is an estimate that 40-45% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions but less than half of those have kept that resolution after 6 months. Are you one of them?

Goal-setting is the most critical part of changing personal lifestyle behavior. People tend to state vague, unrealistic goals and then wonder why they never achieve them.

The following S.M.A.R.T. goal setting guidelines will help you set appropriate personal goals. Your goal will need to be:

Specific Measurable Achievable Realistic Time-bound

For example, you might have a goal to exercise more this year. A more specific and realistic goal will be: I will start walking 20 minutes after dinner 3 times a week starting next week. This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. Once you set your goal, you need to set plans to achieve them. Here are three strategies to help you to reach your goals.

1. Focus on your goal. You are making a commitment. A resolution is not wishful thinking, but an active commitment to change.

2. Keep track of what you’re doing. Write down the activities or strategies you are using to accomplish your goal. For example, successful weight reduction is more likely when food and exercise journals are kept.

3. Think of change as a creative process. Take time to reflect on your progress. What’s working? What’s not working and why?

Wishing you success in achieving your goals this year!

Interested in learning about weight goal and nutrition needs? Schedule a free body weight and fat% analysis with Hazel at 626-283-5128 or email to hazel@smarteater.net.