When the New Year arrives, people see the chance to make a change in their lives, such as quitting smoking or losing weight. But more often than not, resolutions becoming unobtainable and fizzle off as the year goes on. According to Forbes.com, University of Scranton research suggests that only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s goals, but we’d rather see that number increase!
In order to achieve your goals, they need to be realistic. Don’t expect to lose 30lbs in a month or participate in a triathlon with little to no training. Setting tangible goals will help you attain your resolutions.
Here are 5 Realistic New Year’s Resolutions:
Don’t Remove the Chocolate Cake
Instead of focusing on cutting out your favorite foods, focus on adding healthier options to your diet. Having healthier options, will limit your junk food intake and won’t seem near as torturous. Next time you’re at the grocery store, make sure to add more fruits and vegetables to your cart. Having more fruits in the house will give you less room for dessert.
Don’t just say, “I’m going to start exercising”
Give yourself a schedule of twice a week. You don’t have to focus solely on going to the gym. You can go for walks, join an organized sport or take a dance class; your possibilities are endless. Most importantly you want your activity to be enjoyable and suit your interests. You have a better chance of continuing a habit, if it’s something you enjoy.
Pencil Your Bedtime In
Adequate sleep is key to a healthy lifestyle. Not only does it improve your energy level, it also benefits your weight. When you have a lack of sleep, the same hormones that increase in your blood, increase your appetite. Purposely adding a bedtime to your calendar will help keep you on schedule, getting plenty of rest and your appetite controlled.
Keep an Energy Diary
Even when you’re getting enough sleep, your energy levels can plumate. With energy being essential to staying active, it’s important to recognize what’s causing your fatigue. When you start feeling tired throughout the day, take note of how many hours you slept night before, what you had to eat or any physical activities you took part in. Once you start seeing a pattern, you’ll know what’s reducing your energy level.
Drink More Water
Fatigue is one of the first signs of dehydration, so making sure your body gets plenty of water is crucial to a healthy lifestyle. Not only does it increase your energy, it helps your digestive system, mood and can also help you lose weight. If you have a hard time getting your daily suggested amount of water, there are smart cups, bottles and apps out there to help.
YourTown Health is a non-profit network of six community health centers serving the communities of Meriwether, Pike, Lamar, Carroll, Coweta and South Fulton counties for over 35 years. The centers provide access to quality primary care, pediatric care, women’s care, dental care and more, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. The Palmetto location features dentistry, a pharmacy, plus obstetrics and gynecology services, as well as a fully bilingual medical staff. YourTown Health – Your Family. Your Health. YourTown. For more information, please visit www.yourtownhealth.com.
5 Realistic New Year’s Resolutions
