Behavior experts say that it takes about 21 days to form a new habit, and many people try to create (or break) habits at the start of each year. With the right attitude and focus, you can stick to your New Year's resolutions and achieve long-term success. Here are a few tips to help you do exactly that.
If you haven't settled on your top goals for the year do so now. Writing down your goals (in specific terms) means you're more likely to achieve them.
Are your goals specific and positive? Rather than vowing "to exercise" for example, reword each goal so that it is clear and measurable. Post your written goals in places where you'll see them often. These reminders will help you stay focused and on track.
Make a realistic timeline to stay on track. Deadlines turn wishes into goals. Give yourself adequate time to complete each action step and choose a date when you hope to accomplish your overall goal.
Enlist a diverse support system instead of just one buddy. These people should be encouraging or knowledgeable in helpful ways.
Start a journal. This can be a simple notebook or a computer document. Use it to track your progress, record your successes and learn from your mistakes.
Do NOT expect perfection. You will mess up, make mistakes, and forget along the way. The key is persistence and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. Focus on what you have done right instead of dwelling on the negative.
Practice saying and thinking and writing positive things about yourself.
Develop a Plan B. Work, travel, or kids will disrupt your routine, so create alternatives: walk during lunch, choose healthy fast food, or wake up earlier. Doing something is always better than nothing.
Take advantage of technology. Sign up for motivational emails or text messages, set reminders on your computer or have a friend call you and check in on you. These little things will keep you focused no matter where you are.
Reward yourself for each milestone you reach, plan something fun. Rather than using food or skipping a workout to celebrate, stay on track with new clothes, a massage, movie tickets, or a day off work.
Get the right tools. Sticking to your goals may require some supplies, like good shoes to exercise or a stability ball at home to enhance your core workouts.
Add variety! To prevent boredom try new things. Enroll in an exercise class or take your exercise program to the pool. Anything that keeps you excited.
Get back on track. Slipups are normal and they don't mean failure. Instead of beating yourself up for your mistakes, tell yourself that one error does not mean much. Don't wait until tomorrow, next week or next month to get back on track. Put your mistake in the past and move forward.
Be sure to stay on your fitness track by sticking with www.anybodyfitnesstexas.com. Happy New Year and may it be a prosperous and healthy year 2008 for you and yours!!
Kathie Owen holds certifications with International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) as a Certified Fitness Trainer (CFT), Specialist in Older Adult Fitness (SFOA), and Specialist in Sports Conditioning (SSC). Kathie's edge on the market has to do with stress and the fight or flight response we humans have instinctually. She applies interval fitness training to all her clients in support of stress reduction, calorie burn, and endurance building which we all need in order to improve quality of life. Mind, body, spirit are the core aspects of her training philosophy.
Currently Kathie trains one-on-one in Richmond, TX working with the YMCA & LA Fitness. Her website includes free fitness articles, tips and healthy recipes. www.abfitmbs.com
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