Beware the New Year’s Resolution

by Stephanie Nickel

We have a tendency to go into the New Year 100 percent gung-ho and make lofty goals for ourselves. On the other hand, we may figure we’re going to blow it anyway and not make any resolutions (aka goals).

There is a happy medium.

Instead of …

I won’t eat desserts.

Try this …

I will eat my favourite dessert each Saturday and stay away from sweet and salty snacks throughout the week.

Instead of …

I won’t eat between meals.

Try this …

I will divide my daily food intake between five small meals. (It’s less tempting to overeat this way.)

Instead of …

I will drink eight glasses of water each and every day.

Try this …

I will increase my water intake by one glass per week. (Remember caffeine-free herbal teas count as well.)

Instead of …

I will do 30 minutes of cardio each day (walking, skiing, skating, swimming, etc.).

Try this …

I will do cardio one more day each week or two until I am doing so at least five days per week.

Instead of …

I will begin each day by going to the gym or popping in an exercise DVD.

Try this …

I will do so twice a week this month, three times a week in February, four in March, and five in April. I will continue doing a resistance workout five times per week whenever possible. (Remember not to work the same muscles to muscle fatigue two days in a row.)

Instead of …

I will drop 50 pounds this year.

Try this …

I will eat better and exercise more and allow my body to find the weight that is right for it. (Setting a specific weightloss goal isn’t a bad thing, but if losing the weight is our #1 priority, we may do so in an unhealthy fashion and that will lead to other problems.)

When creating your own list of goals, keep in mind George T. Doran’s template. See that your goals are S.M.A.R.T. They should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely.

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Make SMART fitness goals for the New Year. (tweet this)

 Read other posts by Stephanie

14 Qualities to Look for in an Accountability Partner

Setting Yourself up for Success

How do we Make Healthy Changes?

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Steph Beth Nickel is an author, a freelance editor and writer, a labour doula, and a former personal trainer. She’d love to connect with you on Facebook or Twitter, on her website or blog.