January 1st strikes and you’re motivated to become the best version of yourself. The New Year is a burgeoning new beginning to ignite change in your life. Motivation comes easily the first few weeks, and you start to make healthy changes every day. Suddenly, life kicks in and that healthy momentum starts to drastically slow down.
This year can and will be different for you! Motivation is intrinsic; you have to believe in yourself to make your goals become a reality. Honoring your integrity and harnessing your willpower are essential keys to accomplishing your resolutions this year. Here are a few tips on effectively utilizing integrity and willpower to make lasting change.
Write Down One Meaningful Goal
Resolutions are a productive way to outline your goals for the year ahead. However, it’s easy to look at every aspect of your life and make countless resolutions. First, you want to pay off your credit card debt. Next, you want to go to the gym every morning at 6 a.m. Then, you want to get that promotion at work. The list can go on and on. Don’t spread yourself too thin; try making one or two quality and meaningful goals this year. By focusing 100 percent of your energy on that particular goal, you’ll automatically increase your chances of attaining it. Make your goal specific and practical so you can set yourself up for success!
Honor Your Word
Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest. Now that you have outlined one or two very meaningful goals, it’s time to be honest with yourself by honoring your word. Every action you make should be in line with your health goals. When real life gets thrown at you, remember that you have an important promise to keep to yourself. You have the power to push through excuses and utilize full intention in this New Year ahead.
Spend Your Willpower Wisely
Willpower is essential, but don’t make things so hard for yourself. You want to spend your willpower wisely. If you are able to control aspects of your environment, you can increase the chances of maintaining your health goals for the year. For example, keep a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen table or keep healthier items at the front of your fridge. By strategically placing nutritious items in a visible place and keeping not-so-healthy foods out of sight or out of the house, you’re more likely to reach for those wholesome foods to nourish your body. Don’t rely solely on willpower; take a look at the things around you and see what you can control to successfully achieve your goals.
Commit To Your Well-being
This year is all about you. Commit to bettering your mind, body and soul in this New Year. You can always break down your commitment if your goal seems too overwhelming. For example, a day may come where you are feeling lazy and going to the gym for an hour seems impossible. Try breaking down your fitness goal by committing to just five minutes of exercise; chances are once you get on your workout clothes and start moving, you’ll be motivated to break a sweat and stay active.
This year is all about new beginnings and getting out of your comfort zone. Believe in yourself and your ability to make positive changes in the upcoming months ahead. If you slip, pick up the pieces and start right back where you left off.
Stefani Pappas, RDN, CPT, is a Clinical Dietitian Nutritionist at St. Francis Hospital. She also provides private and group nutrition counseling at her office in Great Neck. Visit her website www.StefHealthTips.com for more information and to schedule an appointment
