The new year brings a clean slate, new energy, and it’s the perfect time to start something new. One of the common phrases or goals I hear is “I want to get more healthy” or “I want to loose weight”. While these are great statements, they’re just that. A few changes are made initially, and then the the motivation and drive to reach that health goal fizzles.
One of my favorite quotes is “The definition of insanity is doing the sam thing over and over again, yet expecting different results.” We are so good at over-complicating goals, relationships, and habits. I want to challenge you by asking yourself what you can do differently this year.
It’s typical when forming new habits to let anything and everything derail and take you off course. When creating a new positive healthy habit, instead of focusing on the long list of what you aren’t or what isn’t, accept a new habit for who it allows you to be. Many of the people I work with use the 80/20 rule. Eat clean, wholesome foods 80% of the time, and enjoy treats and the things you love 20% of the time. Rather than perceiving the 80% as a chore and something you dread, embrace it and accept it as your lifestyle. When you are eating food that gives you energy, nutrients, and it serves your body well, this helps eliminate a temporary mindset. It becomes more of a state of being and who you are. The shift may seem small, but I promise you it is worth it.
Here are 5 simple tips to shift focus and help you achieve your goals.
1. Write down your goals.
Dedicate a notebook or journal to record your goals. I like to put them on the first 2 pages of my journal. Be very specific in your goals and have a date when you want to accomplish them!
2. Find yourself an accountability partner.
Maybe it’s someone who will meet you at the gym. Or, a friend who will meal prep with you. It can be a simple as a phone call or text to check in with each other. Whoever it is, identify this person and ask them to keep you accountable.
3. Start with one positive change.
For some, going al- in is overwhelming. Did you know that making one change at a time is more manageable and you can still make progress? I encourage my clients to add in one new positive change every two weeks. It’s effective and attainable.
4. Celebrate!
We forget this all too often. Celebrate big and small wins. What excites you? Maybe it’s a new workout top, coffee date, a kitchen gadget, a trip to the spa, or a date night. Whatever it is, take time to celebrate. Besides, everything is more fun when you do!
5. Read your goals often.
This will help your focus. Remember: what you focus on expands. Go back to your goals and visit them at least every month, or more if you feel it necessary.
My wish for you is to create new positive habits that will help you achieve anything you want. Believe in yourself. Just imagine how different things can be 365 days from now.