New Year, New and Improved Goals
A goal that isn’t sustainable is one that isn’t achievable. Setting goals that are sustainable with your lifestyle is the KEY to success. If you can’t be consistent with your goal for 30 days chances are it’s not sustainable.
Here’s what to consider when creating your New Year’s goals:
Pick something you enjoy (or at least tolerate)
For example, if your goal is to eat more protein at breakfast and you hate smoothies, don’t commit to a daily protein shake! You won’t be successful in achieving your goal if you dread it every day. There are plenty of other ways to add in protein, like in your morning oatmeal! You can add the same ingredients and you’ll be more likely to achieve a goal you look forward to.
Start small with one goal at a time
When most people get to the New Year they feel sluggish and run down from bingeing over the holidays. They take on too many “get healthy” goals in the New Year, most of which are restrictive. No alcohol, no sugar, keto, intermittent fasting, every other kind of fad diet, working out 7 days a week, 5 AM club, on and on. It’s no wonder they don’t actually achieve anything when they’re overwhelmed by everything. Pick one goal and be ruthlessly consistent for 30 days. In 30 days that goal will become second nature and you can add in something new.
Create a routine because you won’t always be motivated
On January 1st we’re highly motivated and by January 30th we feel like a failure because we became unmotivated and didn’t reach our goals. When life gets busy, you know your motivation is going to decrease. Prepare for this by creating a rock-solid routine!
For example, put your walking shoes by the door. When you come home immediately put them on and get going. This will help you stay consistent on the days when you just aren’t feeling it.
Get very clear on your “why”
List why you want to accomplish this goal. Without a clear reason for starting, you won’t be motivated to finish your goal.
Set short term process goals
These are the micro-goals that you focus on daily on your way to the long-term goal.
Look at your goals daily
Very literally keep your eye on the prize. Print a calendar and place an O for every day you work towards your goal and an X for each day you don’t. At the end of the month look at the ratio of X’s and O’s and reassess for next month.
Don’t go it alone
Whether you designate an accountability buddy, share on social media, or work with a professional, keep yourself accountable. Your success rate is much higher when you have someone cheering you on and keeping you focused.
I want to help you reach your New Year’s health and wellness goals in any way I can!
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