Vital to Health and Wellness Blog

A New Years resolution is nothing more than a calendar-based personal goal, which means you need to approach it with some classic goal setting strategies.  In summary that includes selecting a goal that is meaningful, measurable and manageable

1.Meditate on it: take time to think about what you want everyday and see yourself having it.
2.Write it down: put your resolution in writing and leave reminder notes in places you will see on a regular basis (e.g. your refrigerator or computer desk).
3.Stay positive: attitude can make or break your plan so keep your thoughts positive and expect some backsliding (e.g. a vacation or food filled party).  See these slips as temporary detours and get right back on your positive path.

So if this sounds like you and you feel like throwing in the towel may be a good idea, take a closer look at the goals you set and make sure they are SMART:
 
• Specific – “lose weight” is not specific, “lose 10 lbs” is specific
• Measurable - if you can’t measure success, how will you know if you’ve succeeded?
• Attainable
• Realistic – if going to the gym 6 days a week isn't’t realistic, try for 2 days or maybe 3.  Just don’t set yourself up for what you’ll perceive as failure.
• Time-Sensitive.  Everyone needs a date stamp on their goals. Otherwise you’ll put off today what you could do tomorrow, or the next day.
When your resolutions aren’t enjoyable and only focus on what you can’t do (diet is a four-letter word, after all), they might not last very long at all.

But don’t let that stop you from changing your life! Instead of making negative resolutions that probably won’t stick, commit to making positive and uplifting changes that will improve your life immediately—changes that you’ll want to make!

Tips to Achieve Your Goals:

• Writing down your goals (in specific terms) means you're more likely to achieve them.
• Are your goals specific and positive? Rather than vowing "to exercise" for example, reword each goal so that it is clear and measurable: I will walk 30 minutes every day. I will complete a 5K race. I will do a yoga DVD twice a week.
• Post your written goals in places where you'll see them often—on your computer or fridge, in a picture frame on your desk, as a bookmark, and in your wallet. These reminders will help you stay focused and on track.
• Make a realistic time-line to stay on track with small milestones for each time period.  Choose a date when you hope to reach your overall goal.
• Develop and action plan for every goal.  If you want to start eating healthier, for example, find out ways to learn about good nutrition, take classes, visit a dietitian, do research online, join an online community for support.
• Share your goals with family and friends for invaluable support and assistance.  Some of them may even join you!  It’s always more enjoyable to have a partner and provides motivation too.
• On a calendar or spreadsheet, place a BIG sticker, start or checkmark for each day that you accomplish your goal or do everything you planned such as:  walked 3 miles, did not eat any sweets, drank only tea instead of coffee, ate 5 pieces of fruit, etc.

Stay tuned for more tips!