Smaller Health Resolutions Lead to Bigger Successes

We all do it. With the best of intentions and highest of hopes, we make this the year we are finally going to get into shape. And on January 1, we lace up our running shoes and head to the gym. We push ourselves hard and commit to a totally new and healthy way of living. We are M-O-T-I-V-A-T-E-D!

But after a snowy winter that kept most of us inside for months, within close reach of the refrigerator, it would not be surprising if that enthusiasm has waned a bit. If that sounds like you, you are not alone. The unfortunate reality is that the initial excitement of New Year’s resolutions wears off quickly, with an estimated 80% of people giving up on their goals by January 20. Does this depressing statistic mean we shouldn’t set goals, or we should beat ourselves up for spending a lot more time lifting the remote control than we spent lifting weights this year?

Of course not! But it may be time to adjust our expectations once and for all, and start to think of taking care of our bodies as a marathon, and not a sprint. We don’t need a complete overhaul – at least not all at once – to become our healthiest and best selves. It is great to dream big, but setting unrealistic goals can feel overwhelming and set us up for disappointment. The real goal should be to view our health and well-being as a permanent lifestyle and not simply in terms of a particular diet or intense fitness regimen.

Instead of making New Year’s resolutions or frantically working out before the start of swimsuit season, why not make a mini-resolution each and every day of the year to make healthy choices? It can be as simple as deciding to walk five minutes each day or eliminating sugar from your morning coffee or choosing to climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator. Other ideas include signing up for a weekly fitness class, drinking more water or adding a green vegetable to your dinner every night.

Whatever you feel is a small and achievable goal is a good place to start. You will slip up from time to time, and that’s okay. Consistent and sustainable effort is the key - not perfection. Success begets success, and once you feel a sense of accomplishment, it will become easier to make lasting changes and start adding new, and possibly more ambitious, goals.

What simple but meaningful change can you make today to start making your health a priority? Feel free to comment with your ideas!

Contributed by USA Karate & Fitness Official Training Center http://www.usakaratefitness.com

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