Did you make a promise to live a healthier life this New Year’s Eve? That’s great! At this time of year, many of us make resolutions, but it’s also when many people struggle to follow through. To help you make sure your resolution sticks, here are 5 practical tips to turn your goal into reality:
1. Set Your FIRST Short-Term Goal and Make It Measurable
Rather than vague goals like "I should eat more veggies" or "I should exercise more," be specific. Try something like, “I will eat vegetarian meals on Mondays and Wednesdays for the next 30 days,” or “I’ll walk for 30 minutes every day for the next month.” Measurable goals will give you a clearer path to follow and a greater sense of accomplishment when you hit your targets.
2. Reward Yourself for Reaching Your Goal
A goal is not complete without a celebration. Pick a reward that feels meaningful to you—whether it’s treating yourself to something special or taking a moment to appreciate your hard work. A little motivation goes a long way!
3. Tell Someone About Your Goal
Sharing your goal with a friend, family member, or coworker adds a layer of accountability. They’ll help keep you motivated and can even help you celebrate when you hit milestones. Plus, they might offer helpful feedback on your goal, which can give you new perspectives.
4. Take an Interest in Health
Inspiration doesn’t always happen by accident. Dive into reading or learning more about the health aspects of your goal. Whether it’s browsing the Lifesum blog for low-calorie recipes or picking up a book about running techniques, gaining knowledge will help keep you engaged and excited.
5. Change ONE Thing at a Time
Avoid overwhelming yourself with too many changes all at once. Trying to eat healthier, hit the gym every day, and take up a new sport can quickly become too much. Focus on one change at a time and allow yourself to build new habits gradually. This will make the transition more manageable and increase your chances of long-term success.
Best of luck with your healthy goals! Let us know what’s working for you so we can continue supporting you on your journey to better health.
