New Year’s Resolutions

Happy New Year! January is underway and I know many people have already set their new goals. The biggest mistake I see is people trying to make too many lifestyle changes all at once. Diving headfirst into a “new life” tends to be unsustainable, which is why most new year’s resolutions end up fizzling out after one month. It’s no secret that many resolutions fail, but why? Here are 5 reasons why resolutions fail and how to not make these mistakes this year!

1. Setting unrealistic goals- This also includes setting too many goals. Choose 2-3 SMALL goals to start with, that you can be consistent with. Don’t add new goals until you are consistent with the first ones.

2. Lack of accountability- No matter your goal, accountability is key! This could be a friend, spouse, or a coach, but having a support system is especially important for when barriers come up. You need someone there to help keep you focused and cheer you on!

3. Poor planning- Wanting to change isn’t enough. You need to have a plan. Instead of focusing on the end result, think about the steps you need to get there. If you want to run a marathon, you aren’t thinking about the finish line, you concentrate on each mile, one by one.

4. You are resistant to change- This one might surprise you, but even though you want to make changes, it doesn’t mean there might not be resistance to change. Resistance to change is common and can make you feel discouraged and want to give up quickly. If there is resistance, think about why!

5. Not knowing the WHY behind your goal- You need a goal that you are passionate about. Just because your friend, family, doctor, etc. want you to make a change, doesn’t mean that it’s important to you (even if you want it to be). If the goal you set is not meaningful to YOU, then you’re not going to be successful.

How are you going to achieve and maintain these goals?! Be realistic! I know I’m a dietitian, but not all goals have to, or should be, focused on nutrition and exercise. No matter the goal (nutrition, mental health, career, financial, etc.), being a smart goal setter will help you better yourself throughout the year, not just starting on January 1.

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