We all know that most New Year’s Resolutions fail.
But do you know why?
Here’s one possible explanation. Most people set a huge goal for their resolution, and when they start trying to make that goal come true, they get frustrated by its overwhelming nature.
Does this sound familiar?
Did you ever resolve to, say…
- Lose a great deal of weight?
- Or go to the gym six days a week for 90 minutes?
- Or meditate for an hour every morning?
And then… quickly realized how hard such huge tasks are and just give up altogether?
If you have, then you’re not alone. If you haven’t, then you’ve obviously never made a New Year’s Resolution!
Start Small
Try something different this January – or any time you want to build a new habit.
Start small. For example:
- If you want to lose a great deal of weight, then maybe start by trying to eat one healthy meal a day.
- If you want to exercise regularly, start with a 15-minute walk three days a week, and then add a few minutes a day the second week, and so on.
- If you want to establish a meditation practice, then try to meditate for 1 minute each morning for a week. Seriously – set a timer! Add another minute each day the second week, and so on.
Another brilliant tip, popularized by the best-selling book “Atomic Habits,” is to stack the new habit onto an existing one. For example, go for that morning walk immediately after you brush your teeth in the morning.
Try it. It works.
Build on each small success, getting stronger at each step along the way. You wouldn’t expect to be fluent in a new language in your first class, would you? Of course not!
Most resolutions are about ABSTAINING from something – or punishing yourself for “bad” behavior. But this new approach is about setting realistic expectations for POSITIVE change.
Remember, it’s never too late for that.
We’re Here to Help
When it comes to fitness, remember that you have succeeded at reaching countless goals in your life. You have a track record of success to draw on. It’s one of the great blessings of being a little bit older, isn’t it?
You’ve set big goals and reached them in the past. In your career, in raising your kids, in saving for retirement.
Getting in shape – or staying in shape – is no different.
We want to help you build exercise, and overall healthy living, into your daily routine. Consistency is key to getting good results and living a long, strong life.
So is having plenty of support around you.
So is having people hold you accountable.
So is being gentle enough with yourself that you acknowledge your progress.
You get all that and more with our effective, safe and fun approach. Let’s get started on building your new habits today.
Resolved!
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.