WORKING YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

BY KATE FAIRBAIRN

If you are like many people, you will make a list of New Year's resolutions. You will start off with renewed energy and motivation and the desire to make positive changes. This year will you be successful in working consistently on your resolutions, or, will you throw in the towel after a few weeks or so when the newness wears off and roadblocks in life pop up?

Instead of thinking of resolutions as a "get results quick" decision, think of it as a healthy process that doesn't happen overnight, but, when done consistently will become a new lifelong behavior.  

The process of change requires awareness of your current behavior, what your desired outcome is, and what new behavior will you need to put into place to achieve success.

Here are a few strategies to help you jump start your 2012 Resolution:

1. Substitute a specific goal for your resolution. Keep it specific, measureable, attainable, realistic for your lifestyle, and set a completion date to create a sense of urgency.  
2. Change your unhealthy environment. Don't make it harder on yourself with unhealthy foods within easy grasp.   You will eat what's visible and available whether healthy or not.
3. Be prepared for your challenges. When you know it's unlikely you won't come to Fitness Pointe after you arrive home, pack your gear and put into your car the night before and leave on your front seat so you come to work out before going home....and don't forget your healthy snack.
4. Realize that setbacks and roadblocks are part of life. EVERYONE has them, Life is not an all or nothing arena. We all have actions that we were not happy with, but, accepting responsibility and not dooming ourselves as failures but a person who did not make the best choice at the time will lead you closer to success than failure.

Remember that behavioral change is a difficult thing to do but, the rewards in a healthier, energized, and happier you is well worth it.

To a healthy 2012

Coach Kate