How Can We Keep Our Resolutions?

Wellness and fitness resolutions are often fads, and a smooth response when put on the spot. What are your resolutions for the New Year? We say them, we intend on following through, but they rarely last or in some cases even start.

An effective way to set and achieve resolutions is to simplify.

Try these ten ways to streamline and keeping your resolutions.

Be Smart

Make resolutions Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-oriented. For example, participating in a marathon, fitness competition, or charity walk.

Be a Gainer

Focus on the results from your resolutions instead of focusing on what you want to lose. “I want to lose 10 pounds” is less inspiring than “I want to improve body tone.”

Take Your Time

Release the idea of going from zero to 100; initiate one exercise or variation over the course of a couple of weeks. Once you are confident you have that one incorporated, add another one.

Do It Right

The most successful exercises aren’t the hardest or fastest, rather the activities performed with perfect form. Make technique your priority.

Reward Yourself

When you achieve a goal, do something fabulous for yourself. For example, if you want to run a 5K in under a one-half hour, your reward could be a Porsche 911 Turbo S or the running shoes you have been eyeing.

Have Fun

Working out should be fun; however, you define “fun.” Jump on a trampoline, sign up for a dance class or walk your dog.

Do It With Your Crew

A little help from friends is not a competitive thing, but they can keep you accountable and encourage you. I did not think group participation was significant until a friend asked me to share my Apple Watch activity. It works. Pick friends who will focus on positive reinforcement.

Visualize It

Visualizing goals sounds cliché, but it works. Regardless, if you are in the gym, in a studio, on a trail or just trying to muster up the motivation to workout, visualize it; see and feel yourself doing it. It works.

Get More Sleep

Sleep is a fitness goal. Quality sleep keeps you energized so you can excel at your workouts, and recover from them.

Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff

You will miss workouts, and there will be days when you don’t perform as well. Don’t let that discourage you. Accept it and move on. Progress takes time. Be patient and trust.