Are you ready to make your goals and resolutions for the new year? 2021 is almost here, and we’re all hoping for a better year than 2020. Many people were forced to switch up their exercise routines and struggled to stay focused on their health and wellness goals. You may want to refocus on your health goals in 2021. Only an estimated 8% of individuals accomplish the resolutions and goals they set for themselves at the start of the year. We have some tips to help you make attainable New Year’s resolutions.
Triggers and bad habits
Before you finalize your resolution, list out what you believe to be your bad habits and your triggers. What triggers you to skip workouts or overeat? Be thorough and be tough on yourself. Then, target these behaviors with the resolutions you make. This may mean giving things up. However, targeting these behaviors will help you find success.
Be realistic
If you want to make a weight-loss resolution, be realistic about it. Together with your doctor, come up with a realistic and safe weight-loss goal. Don’t make unreasonable weight-loss goals. It will set you up for failure. Give yourself plenty of time to achieve your resolution. Small steps go a long way. Work on smaller goals that will contribute to the larger, long-term goal.
Do what you love
If you are resolving to lose weight and exercise more in 2021, find a way to make the process something you enjoy. For instance, if you want to exercise more, find an activity you love. Don’t make a resolution to start running if you hate running. Resolve to try some new activities to find what you enjoy doing. Maybe it’s kickboxing or maybe it’s yoga. Experiment! The same goes for food. There are plenty of superfoods out there that may not be your cup of tea. If you hate spinach, try another leafy green. Make accommodations to find what works best for you!
Be specific
Your resolutions should be specific and measurable. Whenever possible, add a timeline or number to your resolution. For instance:
- I will exercise 3 times per week
- I will lose 30 pounds by the end of the year
- I will eat vegetables with at least one meal per day
Making goals specific—and less ambiguous—makes them easier to measure and follow, and it will help you avoid bending the rules.
Give yourself time
Achieving your resolution requires the time and space to work at it. Schedule time to work on your resolution, and check in on your progress regularly. Maybe you do a weekly weigh-in, or maybe every month you review your food journal to look for patterns and changes. Consistency is key in reaching your goal. For more weight-loss advice, see our other blogs.
