New Years Resolutions: Planning for Success
How many times have you set a goal to lose weight in the new year? Did you succeed? If not, you’re not alone! In fact, some new research suggests that less than 10% of people who set New Years resolutions actually follow through. The good news is, we’ve also discovered a few things that successful resolution setters do differently, so you can plan better and see better results! Here are a few tips from the experts:
Set More Concrete Goals
One of the biggest indicators of whether or not a goal will be met has to do with the language you use when setting the goal itself. Vague language like “living healthier” or “losing weight” does not create an imperative for you to actually act. Instead, your goals need to be measurable, reasonable, and have a specific deadline. Use the SMART system: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. We would also add that your goals need to be actionable, meaning that there are concrete actions you can take each day toward your goal, as opposed to setting passive goals.
It is important to write your newly formed goal in a place where you will encounter it often. Not only should you write out your goal using the SMART formula above, but you should also put your deadlines into your calendar so that you have regular reminders and you can track your progress.
Have a Plan
Even saying that you’re going to lose 15 pounds over the course of 365 days is not going to be sufficient unless you have a plan of action. Which gym are you going to? How often? What kind of yoga classes are you going to take and when? Again, the more specific you are, the better. If your goal includes going to the gym and meal planning, make sure you work that in as well. Don’t leave anything up to chance.
Invest Your Money
Your health is an investment, and in the long run, healthy living is sure to save you more in medical costs. However, there is also a psychological effect that comes with spending money toward a goal. Once you’ve joined the gym, hired a personal trainer, and bought a few healthy cook books, you have put your hard earned paycheck to work, and now you just have to follow through. It’s a lot harder to stay committed if you don’t invest, because you can walk away at any time without losing anything. Consider it a challenge to bet on yourself!
Get Accountable
Accountability is one of the final determinants of success. Unfortunately, most of us aren’t great at holding ourselves accountable. That is why many people choose to use a journal to track their personal progress, a blog to share their story with other people and gain support, or even a close friend or family member who can check in and talk you through the tough days. In general, the more people we have watching our journey, the more important it is for us to stay on track! Find the right level of accountability for you.
If you’re ready to put together a plan for the new year, but you’re weary of meal planning and cooking, consider one of Lean Lifestyle’s convenient meal plans. We take the guesswork out of eating so that you can focus your energies on other healthy living tasks.
