It’s that time of year again. On January 1st, we’ll all put our hands on our hearts and swear that we’re going to be healthier in 2014. Unfortunately, it seems like everyone forgets their resolutions after a few weeks. If you want to stay true to your fitness resolutions, here are 3 ways you can build healthy habits for the coming year.
1. Don’t set unrealistic goals. If you set a goal to lose 100 lb. and get your six pack back, you’re more likely to fail. If you set your expectations unrealistically high, the idea of actually meeting the goal may be daunting. Set yourself up with a simple resolution, like deciding to take a 20 minute walk after dinner every day. Some people advocate working on one habit at a time, in order to live a healthier life. Prioritize your health goals and focus on them one by one, so that you can truly and thoroughly master them. Once you’ve got some epic self discipline, that six pack will be much closer.
2. Find a buddy. Whether you’re planning a diet or a workout routine, find a partner in crime. If you’re starting a particularly tough diet (like cutting out gluten or processed foods), find a friend or family member to make the journey with you. Chances are that someone in your life has a similar goal, and would love the support when cravings become overwhelming. You can be there for one another, and share healthy resources so that you both get better together. For a fitness goal, a buddy is even more important. You’re much more likely to work out in the first place, if you are planning to meet a friend for a work out. Plus, your competitive side may come out, causing you to work even harder than if you were just exercising by yourself.
3. Forgive yourself if you slip up. No one is perfect. The healthiest person on the planet still has a piece of chocolate cake now and again. If you slip up on your diet or exercise routine, don’t beat yourself up. Recognize what influenced you to cheat on your diet, and avoid that temptation in the future. All you can do is deal with it and promise to be better tomorrow. One little slip up doesn’t mean that you’ve “ruined” or “broken” your resolution. It just means that every journey has its challenges and it’s okay to forgive yourself and try again.
Good luck meeting your fitness goals in 2014! If you follow these simple guidelines, you’ll certainly be healthier a year from now.