How to Stick to Your New Year’s Resolution

Did you make a New Year’s resolution this year? If so, you’re amongst 45% of the American population that did too.¹ For most, the initial intentions to improve are good, but unfortunately not all New Year’s resolutions stick, and many tend to forget about them once February arrives.

So, how can you stick with your resolution and achieve your goals? Here are four ways: 

1. Be specific – Instead of saying you’ll work on “being healthier” or “losing weight”, it’s important to be more specific. For example, a more detailed goal could be to “lose 15 pounds by March” or “have vegetables with dinner every single night.” Being specific and clear makes your resolutions much more achievable, giving you the highest possibility for success.

2. Make one change at a time – Making gradual changes one at a time is key for success. That’s because if you change everything all at once it can become overwhelming and tempting to give up all together. Therefore, work on one change at a time. It’s important to remember that slow progress is still progress! Substantial changes won’t ever happen overnight, but being consistent with small everyday changes will certainly add up.

3. Celebrate successes – It’s important to celebrate your progress and success, just remember to not go against your resolutions. For example, if you have a resolution to lose weight, then don’t celebrate with a bowl of ice cream. Instead, look for fun activities to do such as going to a movie, ice skating, or getting a manicure.

4. Get support – It can be easy to get off track, so having support is a great way to stay motivated. Consider joining a support group in your community or online, meet with friends weekly to talk about your progress, and tell your family about the resolutions you are trying to achieve so they understand what you’re working on. Also, if you feel like you need some support and accountability don’t hesitate to use our dietary services!

Whether you want to start a new exercise program or learn how to eat a healthier diet, our team at Live Your Life is here to help. How will you make your New Year resolutions stick?

Health and Happiness,

Autumn Enloe, MS, RD, LD

Registered Dietitian

Live Your Life^TM

Bringing Physical Therapy & Wellness to You!

Autumn Enloe is a registered and licensed dietitian who holds a Master’s degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences. Autumn has worked with hundreds of clients on areas such as weight management, blood sugar support, gut health, mindful eating, and food sensitivities.  She applies a holistic approach to nutrition and knows that our health is based on much more than just what we eat. Visit our website to learn more about our dietary services.

References

¹New Years Resolution Statistics. http://www.statisticbrain.com/new-years-resolution-statistics/. Accessed December 22, 2016.