We are just over 6 weeks into the new year, so that means it’s time to check in on those infamous new year’s resolutions! While we hope they are going well for you, statistics show that by this time into the new year, about 80% of those resolutions have fallen to the bottom of the to-do list…or maybe even off if it completely! Why does this happen?
Resolutions or in other words, goals, are based on habits – whether it be stopping an existing one or starting a new one. We have become so conditioned to our habits that we might not even realize we are doing them; maybe we don’t imagine our day without these specific behaviors because they have become ingrained into our everyday lives. Imagine not brushing your teeth in the morning? No thank you! It is safe to say that not all habits are as good for us as brushing our teeth. The trick to making a new resolution last is to turn it into a new habit, and here are some tips on how to do this:
Be specific. Simply saying, “I am going to eat more vegetables this year” is much too vague. How will you make sure you eat more vegetables this year? How many more vegetables? When will you do so? Is there a current food-related habit that could be tweaked in order to work towards the goal?
Be realistic. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Making small steps towards the bigger goal is a great way to make sure you’re being realistic with yourself. Small changes that lead up to the larger goal is the key to success — maintainable success at that!
Be timely. Make your resolution a habit before the end of the year! Setting a shorter time-frame that still allows enough time for change is a simple idea that is sure to hold you more accountable. Allowing too much time to reach the goal leads to procrastination!
At Integrative Health and Wellness, we do everything we can to make sure our clients do not only reach their goals, but do so in a way that is maintainable. We want to help you accomplish your new year’s resolutions so that next year, the same resolution is not being set. No matter how big or small the changes might be, it takes effort to make them! We would be happy to help you every step of the way.
Our 12 week lifestyle-based program focuses on setting personalized goals and making specific, realistic changes to turn those goals into new habits. Interested in learning more? Schedule a free consultation with us!