2014 is all but
knocking down your door, but you haven’t revamped your wall décor or repurposed
your furniture like you said you would...
Quitting smoking
somehow became yesterday’s news. And eating healthy lost its appeal somewhere
between Johnny’s wedding and Anna’s birthday.
But even though
some New Year resolutions disappear down the drain faster than last night’s
dinner – it doesn’t always have to be that way.
Here’s a few
tips to keep that “I promise”.
Start yesterday. It’s never too soon to get aboard the “Let's-Improve-My-Life”
band wagon. Why not brainstorm and jot down a few ideas?
Place reminder
notes on your fridge, mirror, desk – wherever you think will serve as
inspiration and pick a goal before countdown begins.
Get real. Since illogical resolutions (losing 20
pounds in 10 days) never quite make it to week two – make sure your goals are
genuine and doable.
It’s important
not to embark on a miserable journey or entertain emotional breakdowns as you
set the pace for 2014. What’s pertinent isn’t so much losing the weight, but
more the commitment to no more McDonald’s or too many sweet treats.
Trade it in like a car. Don’t just give up something you love.
Replace it with something that’ll benefit you. Rather than power up that PS3 or
Twitter for two hours before bed – curl up with a good read or pop in a workout
DVD.
Get specific and clock it. Instead of making loosey goosey goals like “I’ll
workout more” – preplan your gym visits and clock how long it takes you to
reach your get-fit objectives.
On the flip
side, don’t feel too bad if by end of January you’re still not an everyday face
at “World of Fitness”. Experts says habits take anywhere from 18 to 254 days to
become truly second nature.
Team up. As you step outside the box and attend that
kick-boxing class or art workshop, it’s easy to make friends with the same
likes. But as you start to network don’t forget to consider their goal-setting
style.
Planners should
pair up with doers and researchers can reap rewards from those who like to dive
right in. Remember, opposites attract and different work styles can help bring
out the best in everyone.
Reward yourself. A boost of confidence and a surge of pride
always feels great, but those aren't the only things you’ll need to keep
motivated.
If you’ve been
making leaps and bounds with your resolution – reward yourself with a tangible
gift. A juicy steak dinner never hurt anyone.
Good luck and
happy New Year!
