Most of us have set New Year’s resolutions at some point in our lives. As we turn the page on the calendar, it makes sense that we’d desire to make positive changes in a new year. Many people, however, set goals that are drastic, unrealistic and difficult to accomplish. What can follow are stress and self-judgement if the goals are not achieved. In this case, ‘resolutions’ tend to evoke negative connotations and create unnecessary pressure on ourselves.
Instead, I like to make a list of “New Year’s Manifestations” – areas of self-improvement that I want to focus on, with measurable steps to accomplish, and realistic expectations to achieve. This is a more positive spin on resolutions, and a much more mindful approach to starting a new year on the right foot. With this kind of approach the motivation to accomplish goals starts with inspiration rather than desperation.
Set SMART Goals
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. They’ll help you in making a commitment while setting you up for success. When establishing SMART goals, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is this goal Specific? Be as detailed as possible – the more specific you are, the more likely you are to reach the goal.
- Is this goal Measurable? Establish criteria to measure progress. Create a checklist of steps and check off each item as it’s completed.
- Is this goal Attainable? When you clearly identify your goal, you can embody the attitudes, abilities, and skills to reach it successfully. Make sure your goals align with your future vision and authentic self.
- Is this goal Realistic? You must be committed, willing and able to work toward your goal. Be honest with yourself about your available time and energy and plan accordingly. Make sure your goal is challenging enough to inspire and motivate you.
- Is this goal Timely? Set a deadline to anchor your goal and create a calendar leading up to this deadline including having all the steps you need to reach your goal mapped out.
A common goal many people have when entering a new year is to improve their physical health, especially if they indulged over the holidays. I am guilty of this, too, but starting a crash diet or extreme workout regimen may not be a sustainable solution and could add more self-imposed stress which can be counterproductive.
For example, instead of focusing on exercising more as a way to lose weight (“I want to exercise more”), say instead, “I want to work out four times a week.”
Think about all the positive, measurable goals you can set to lose weight. One could be to reduce sugar and processed foods; another could be to cook more meals at home; and a third could be to incorporate stress-management practices daily. Start a food diary to track your meals and make a plan to cut down on one or two types of food each week. Write down your workouts so you can monitor your progress and improvements from week-to-week.
Chronic stress levels also contribute to weight gain. Try journaling or meditation to focus on things that you’re grateful for – practicing gratitude is a proven stress reducer.
Maintaining healthy relationships is also very important to your overall physical and mental health. Take an honest look at your relationships with friends and family and see where there needs to be more boundaries established, or what relationships you want to strengthen even more.
Create a vision board including words and images that represent how you’ll feel when you complete your weight loss goal. Having visual reminders will help motivate you to stick to your healthy habits and help manifest success.
Other ways to help you achieve your goals are to schedule time on your calendar for workouts, find a support system (maybe it’s a workout buddy), and celebrate each successful milestone. Remember, no one is perfect – we all may face stumbling blocks along the way to our goals. It’s ok! Each day is a new opportunity to get back on track.
Take some time to really think about what areas of your life you’d like to make improvements in this year. Maybe you’ve always wanted to take a drawing class, or learn to play the trumpet... or maybe there’s a dream vacation you’d like to save up for. Any goal that aligns with your dreams and desires can be more easily attained by outlining the SMART goal. Happy manifesting!
Learn more about Kristen Todoroff's services at BeWell360.com. Also look for her breakfast recipe in this issue to help start your day right.