Okay, it’s January and you’re thinking about how you fell off the wagon for the holidays right? You were getting your workouts in and eating healthy prior to the holidays and wondering how did I let this happen? For some it was a matter of too many distractions from holiday parties, traveling or indulging in foods that we wouldn’t dare eat during the year. Well, have no fear, new year, new you right? It’s time to make a list of New Year goals (I don’t believe in resolutions as they tend to put pressure on people if they don’t stick to them) to get back on track.
Here’s how you can start:
Make a list of what your goals are for the new year. Make them attainable. Start with one or two. Remember, the key is not to put any unnecessary pressure on yourself. If your goal is to lose weight, workout more or be more active, eat healthier, get more sleep, have more quality time for yourself, family, stop smoking, etc. start with one but no more than two. The list can start to become a bit overwhelming.
1) During the first month, let’s say you start to focus on eating healthy. Work on your meal preparation for the week. Meal prep is essential to be successful regardless of one’s goals. Create your menu for the week. Prepare a list of the groceries needed and go shopping. Pick a day during the week, for me it’s a Sunday and prepare your meals. This will help eliminate skipping meals or eating the wrong foods.
If getting into the habit of meal prepping is working, then try working on a game plan to be more active. Start by just moving. Try to climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator at work or at home. Take breaks at lunch and walk around the neighborhood. Take short breaks away from your desk and do some light stretching or even a mini-workout.
2) Once you get into the habit of moving, the next step is to join a gym. If you need someone to hold you accountable, find a partner or sign up with a trainer. It’s always a good idea, especially in the beginning to hire a trainer to show you how to use the equipment and to help keep you safe.
3) Working and becoming successful with the first two will lead to weight loss.
4) Getting more sleep is also a common goal for the new year. As you start to get in the habit of being more active and working out, it will become even more important to get sleep. Your body needs it for recovery. A good night’s sleep is very important for your health and just as important as eating healthy and exercising.
Regardless of your goals, becoming consistent will most certainly help you develop the discipline needed to stay on track during the year and will translate to other goals you may have.
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