New Year, Better You

New Year, Better You!

From LeQui Raymond, Wellness Coordinator, Fitness and Recreation

Happy New Year, everyone! Whether you’re ready for it or not, 2018 is here.  And what do we typically do in the New Year? We make resolutions that will transform us into someone new!  Yay!  So, how did those 2017 resolutions work out for you?

The Struggle Is Real

Most of us have made a New Year’s resolution at some point, whether it’s eating healthier, exercising more, losing weight, quitting smoking, stopping procrastination, drinking less soda, becoming more organized, etc. While all of these proposed “resolutions” are positive changes, sticking with them is not that easy if you do not have a plan in place.  Some folks reached their goals, while others have not followed through and ultimately backslid into old habits. How do we break the cycle and make changes to become a better version of ourselves?

Why Resolutions Fail

In the new year, we are eager to start working on our resolutions; however, that motivation may fade over time. Ever wonder why? Resolutions may slowly dissipate for a few reasons:

  • They are too vague. (Too broad and not specific enough)
  • There is no step-by-step plan in place. (Doing with no detailed plan of action)
  • They are too overwhelming. (Taking on too much at one time)
  • All or nothing thinking. (“I didn’t do it perfectly, so I may as well give up.”)

Goals > Resolutions

More than half of all resolutions fail! To achieve long-term change, think of the new behavior as a change in lifestyle – not a just a resolution. To be successful, plan it out by setting goals to reach along the way. But not just any goals, we need to set S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measureable, attainable, relevant and time-bound) goals!

Specific – Be clear and specific about what you want to accomplish.

Measureable – Use language that makes it clear how you will reach the goal (i.e., how much, how many, for how long, how often).

Attainable – Set a goal you believe is possible to reach.

Relevant – Your goal should be something you are willing to work on and it should be meaningful to you.

Time-bound – Establish a realistic time frame or deadline for reaching your goal.

An example of a S.M.A.R.T. goal:  I will drink more water by increasing my daily intake from 16 ounces to 24 ounces for the next two weeks.

The goal encompasses all of the S.M.A.R.T. criteria – it is simple and doable. Increasing how much water you drink by one glass each day is reasonable, wouldn’t you agree?

By establishing S.M.A.R.T. goals, we can make changes that will be long-term and lead to a healthier lifestyle. It helps to write down your goals and action steps to help track your progress and hold yourself accountable!

Slow and Steady Wins the Race!

When it comes to making changes, we have to remember to take it slow. We didn’t acquire a bad habit in a couple weeks; therefore, it will take some time to establish a better habit. Plan small, incremental changes with a timeline to achieve them. Consistency is key! As you make progress toward meeting your goal, add another small step. Anticipate challenges or barriers you may face along the way and have a plan in place to overcome or get around them. Allow yourself room to make mistakes, but get back on track right away.  Noticeable changes may take time, but be sure to acknowledge and celebrate the small victories! Remember, it’s about progress – not perfection!

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