by Kristen Hogan
Each year millions of Americans resolve to get in better shape and become healthier versions of themselves. According to a recent YMCA survey of more than 1,000 adults, less than a quarter of respondents kept their resolution.
However, there is hope for the upcoming year. One-third of survey respondents plan to make a resolution and stick to it to reach their goals. More than half believe that encouragement from others will keep them on track. Finding a supportive community like the Y can be beneficial in keeping resolutions on track, because the Y organization is so much more than a gym.
Here are five tips to help make a healthy New Year’s resolution successful:
- Start small. Set attainable resolutions. If you plan to lose 30 pounds, try losing five pounds first, and then work your way up to your 30-pound goal.
- Take it one step at a time. Making a New Year’s resolution does not require you to reassess every little detail of your life. Replacing unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones takes time. Do not become overwhelmed. Work to change one behavior at a time, and then go from there.
- Track your progress. Keep track of each small and large success. Each accomplishment helps keep you motivated. Keeping a journal or log of your progress can help you stay on track.
- Don’t beat yourself up. Don’t obsess over the occasional slip. Changing your lifestyle takes time. Stay focused on your goal and take one day at a time.
- Reward Yourself. This does not mean you can eat an entire tub of ice cream if your resolution is to eat healthier. Instead, reward yourself by going to the movies, or buying a new workout shirt.
For additional tips on healthy living, visit ymcabr.org/healthyfamilyhome
