It’s common to set New Year’s resolutions at this time of year, but by late February or March most of us have quit working toward our goals. Often the reason is because we don’t set goals that are specific and measurable.
For example, how many times have you said, “I’m going to lose weight” or “I’m going to get in better shape”? There’s nothing wrong with those goals, of course, but they aren’t very specific. How much weight? What does “better” mean? Without a measurable goal, it’s hard to make meaningful progress.
There’s another problem with the common “lose weight” resolution. While some of us do need to drop a few pounds for the sake of our health, some weight loss gimmicks can actually be harmful. So if you’d rather focus on health (with the side benefit of supporting your weight loss plan) one of these specific, measurable resolutions might work better for you.
Make fruits and veggies a daily goal. Aim to include five servings of non-starchy vegetables, and two servings of fruit, into your daily eating plan. When you focus on what you need to eat, rather than what you can’t, you might find your weight loss plan much more enjoyable.
Read (a book) every night. If you look at a device screen late at night, the light can interrupt your brain waves that signal sleep. The result can be insomnia during the night, and sleepiness during the day. A lack of sleep also interrupts the hormones that regulate appetite and fat storage. So pick up a book instead, and support healthier sleep habits.
Set a water goal. Using a refillable water bottle, set a goal to drink a certain amount of water each day. Research has shown that increasing your water intake can actually result in fewer calories consumed through saturated fat and sugar.
Commit to a fitness date. Rather than trying to hold yourself to an arbitrary workout goal, commit to a regular date with a friend or your family. Sign up for a weeknight class, train for a fundraising run, or promise the kids you’ll go hiking each Saturday. When you know someone is counting on you, you’re more likely to follow through.
Of course, you might also wish to pair these resolutions with an actual, measurable weight loss plan. Give us a call, and we’ll help you learn about the foods you should be eating to support your goals.
