With the onset of a new year comes the onset of New Year resolutions, particularly when it comes to health and fitness. People are going to go to the gym five days a week, lose 40 pounds by the summer, drink eight cups of water a day and eat healthier. However, once February and March roll around, most of these “resolutions” are out the window and set to repeat the same story the following year. So why is it that most people are unable to maintain their health and fitness resolutions?
The main reason most people are unable to maintain their resolutions or reach their goals is because the goals are too lofty or unattainable. For the individual working full-time plus hours and has a family, it may be difficult to make it to the gym five days a week. So when that is realized, the whole “going to the gym” goal is ended all together. The same goes with losing 40 pounds by summer. Once March or April come around and the weight hasn’t been lost as expected, that goal of 40 pounds seems too insurmountable and is dashed. So what can we do?
The answer is simple. Set smaller, more realistic goals and, once accomplished, set another goal. Tell yourself you will get to the gym twice a week and workout a day or two at your home. Set a goal to lose three pounds over the course of the month. Once that is accomplished, set another weight loss goal that is measurable and attainable. When you buy food for the home, purchase healthier options. When it comes to drinking water, start with three to four glasses a day then build up. Acknowledge small victories. Even if you didn’t lose weight for a week, if you didn’t gain either, that is a victory. Try not to set yourself up for failure with goals which may not be attainable. Rather give yourself more short term health and fitness goals and build upon those successes as you continue to improve your health and fitness over the course of a year.
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