Don't Quit! Four Ways to Reset & Restart Your Resolutions
The second Friday of every January is known as Quitter's Day. This is because every year, it's been reported that many of us who made new year's resolutions give up on those resolutions before the second Friday is over.
If you've made new year's resolutions to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle, we've put together some tips on how you can reset and start anew on those new year goals.
Establish Accountability
If you feel like you may be slipping on your goals, try to establish some type of accountability for yourself. This could be involving a friend or loved one in your resolutions, keeping them updated on your progress and in exchange receive positive feedback. Or you could simply get a calendar to keep track of your goals. This may be as simple as writing in a checkmark or a smiley face in each day you hit your goal. Be sure to give yourself positive reinforcement (i.e. reward yourself for working toward your goal) instead of punishing yourself for missing a day or two.
Short-Term Goals For Long-Term Results
Speaking of your goals, make sure you set yourself short-term goals, or micro goals, instead of solely focusing on the long-term accomplishments. It's important, especially as you build your resolutions into your routines, to give yourself short-term wins. This will help you create momentum, boost your confidence and discourage procrastination because of the tighter deadlines.
Reestablish Your "Why"
What's the point? If you feel like you're asking yourself this question in regard to your new year goals, revisit and try to reestablish the reason you set these goals in the first place. As Dr. John Dockins with EvergreenHealth Weight Loss & Bariatric Care explains, your why is what will keep you inspired and on track when you come to roadblocks or face challenges along the way.
Be Flexible With Yourself
We have probably all been there at some point. The first time we slack on our goals, we become disappointed in our resolve and decide to give up our resolutions completely. Go easy on yourself and be patient. Even a positive incremental change is a step in the right direction. If you continue to struggle to keep up with your goals, consider altering them to something more achievable for you. Then treat your accomplishments as the foundation to build new goals on.
New year resolutions can put a lot of pressure on us to make immediate positive and healthy changes in our lives, but it's important to set ourselves up for success in order to make lasting changes. If you're wondering what some healthy goals are you can set for yourself, consider paying a visit to your primary care provider to discuss ways you may be able to work toward a healthier lifestyle.
