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Tips for healthy resolutions for the whole year

  • Published
  • By Penny Cook
  • 20th ADOS Health and Wellness Center
As the first few months of the New Year slip away, do you find your resolutions slipping away as well?

Resolutions should be reasonably attainable so that you are setting yourself up for success rather than disappointment. Try focusing on small intermediate goals that will ultimately lead you to your primary goal. Do not expect to be perfect and aim for a healthy lifestyle you feel comfortable sticking with.

First, you should take small steps. Simply establishing the goal of leading a healthy lifestyle should make you feel good about yourself. To make that goal more attainable, come up with small goals you know you can meet each day to help keep yourself feeling positive.

Second, be creative. Perhaps you can find ways to exercise while also accomplishing other goals. If weather permits, try walking to do errands that are in close proximity to your home or office. Try walking with a family member or bringing your children along on bikes while you walk or jog.

Third, be sure your plan of action is realistic. Plan to work out at times when it is convenient for you.

Try to make things as easy as possible for yourself. Set your goals at reasonable heights so you can reach them one by one without feeling overwhelmed.

Anticipate roadblocks and reward yourself for successes. If things like weather and illness prevent you from sticking to your plan, make alternate plans for situations you cannot avoid.

Most importantly, do not let a missed day or two throw you completely off target. Instead, do your best to get back on track as quickly as possible.