Another year has arrived, and many people are a few days into their resolutions. Making these resolutions is the easy part; it’s the follow through that proves to be difficult for most. Creating healthy habits that you can practice every day can be challenging at first, but once they are a part of your daily routine, they won’t feel like an added step.
If maintaining a healthier lifestyle is one of your resolutions, below are a few tips to keep you motivated throughout the year.
Hold yourself accountable
If working out more is one of your goals, schedule your workouts or gym visits beforehand so you know it’s on your agenda. If possible, get your workout in before work, or do it immediately afterwards. If you wait until after you get home, you are less likely to cross that workout off of your to-do list. Another great way to stay accountable is to do your workouts with a partner. If you are both attending a class or going to the gym at the same time, you can motivate one another to push a little farther each time.
Set small goals to build upon
Setting large goals often sets us up for failure. When you realize how long it might take to reach a certain goal, it’s easier to just give up altogether. Creating a list of small goals that you can build on over time is the best way to go. Start with goals like losing five pounds or lowering your carbohydrate intake.
Keep track of your progress
After you’ve set those small goals, starting tracking your progress. Apps like MyFitnessPal, Lose It and SparkPeople are great tools for journaling your food intake and activity. Once you start reaching your goals, you can see what is working for you in terms of diet and exercise.
Don’t give up after one slip up
When it comes to living a healthier lifestyle, it’s easy to skip a day of workouts or eat something that isn’t a part of your healthy diet. If you do have a bad day or week, encourage yourself to get back on track, knowing that you will feel better physically and mentally when you do so. Change is hard, so expect to have a few slip ups here and there.
Face your fears
Certain workouts can be extremely hard, even for those that are in great shape. If you have been wanting to try an indoor cycling or dance class, now is the time to give it a shot. Going to new workout classes can be intimidating and nerve-wracking, but it could end up being your new favorite activity.
Believe in yourself
You have the power to change yourself. If you want something bad enough and you continuously work hard for it, you will be so proud in the end!
Sources
http://www.healthyway.com/content/how-to-stay-motivated-to-keep-your-new-years-resolution
https://chuzefitness.com/5-tips-to-stay-motivated-achieve-your-new-year-s-resolutions/
https://www.gaiam.com/blogs/discover/10-tips-to-help-you-keep-your-new-year-s-resolution
https://notablelife.com/5-tips-to-help-you-get-and-stay-motivated-in-2017/