As we ring in the New Year, many of us have a list of things we hope to accomplish. For some, it’s heading to the gym more regularly, for others it may mean spending more time with the family or maybe losing 10 pounds. While these resolutions are easy to make, they aren’t quite as easy to keep. As February rolls around, several of these well-intentioned promises we made to ourselves are left behind. Did you know that 63% of people say they are still keeping their resolutions after two months?
This year, try these 5 tips for getting in the right mindset for 2015.
1. Don’t put pressure on yourself
One of the biggest mistakes that we make is to over-commit to self improvement. What I mean by this is that we throw too much in to the mix. Say our goal is fitness-based. It’s better to commit to “making healthier decisions” than it is to say “I am going to lose 20 pounds.” When we make a goal so singularly focused, there is an excess amount of pressure applied to us. Commit to your goals and understand that you may stumble along the way! That’s completely alright, which leads me to the second tip.
2. Take setbacks in stride
You will have setbacks. If you can’t accept this in stride, you will be setting yourself up for failure. Many people have ‘black or white’ thinking when it comes to goal setting. Basically, the all-or-nothing mentality. You slip up, you quit. This is an unhealthy pattern of thinking and leads to perfectionism. You have made a resolution to change things in your life because they are obviously important to you – so why abandon it so easily just because of one little mistake? Keep your eye on the goal and keep moving toward it! Even if it’s one step forward and two steps back at some points, it’s all part if the journey toward self improvement.
3. Involve family and friends
Studies have shown that when we have the support of people we care about, we are much more likely to reach a goal. There may be times we want to quit or on the other hand, moments of triumph and if we can share these with the people we love, it helps us to continue on a positive path. It can be fun to make resolutions with your friends and family. Not only does it help to say these positive changes out loud but it also is great to have accountability.
4. Track progress
Nothing happens overnight, which is why it is very important to keep track of all the small steps in the right direction. By tracking your progress, you will have a visual reminder that your hard work is paying off. This can be a great tool for you to use when you are discouraged or feel like it is taking so long to achieve your goal.
5. Ask for support when you need it
If you feel yourself losing sight of your goal, be sure to speak up and ask for support. By involving friends and family (as you have now already done) you have a built-in support group. Whether you are simply trying to get in shape or quit smoking, it’s a great idea to speak up and ask for help when you are struggling!
Have a safe and healthy New Year from all of us at Arcadia Health and Wellness!
