Many of us may be reflecting on our commitments that we made at the beginning of 2023. Did we create goals that created an opportunity to embrace lasting change?
- Did you make it to the gym as much as you were hoping?
- Did you completely 180 your eating habits and are now eating a balanced meal every time?
- Did you tell yourself that it is time to start getting into a more positive mindset with daily meditations?
It is a common experience that New Years’ Resolutions don’t always pan out the way we were hoping. So, rather than focusing solely on resolutions that may fade, let’s delve into the idea of making lasting lifestyle changes. To plan out a journey of self-improvement.
Break Free From Resolutions
We have all created lists of how we are going to change in the new year. How we are going to make things happen. “New year new me.” Despite having the best intentions, they can slip through the cracks. But it hardly happens the way we plan. We need to move away from the resolution mind set to incorporating new steps into our lives to make lasting changes.
Break it Up!
Breaking down your overall goals into smaller steps is a great way to actually achieve them. If your ultimate goal is to be more fit, you don’t want to just focus on that. Start by incorporating small exercise routines into four or five days out of the week. Could be a walk around your neighborhood, a small weight lifting routine, or some yoga! Whatever interests you to keep you motivated.
Embrace Lasting Change with Friends
It also helps to have a friend! Enlist a friend with similar goals. They can help keep you accountable and the social aspect will keep you going. Together you can discuss plans to embrace lasting change. What does that look like to you? How will you make small goals into daily routines?
Weight loss typically tops the list of resolutions, but by mid February, most resolutioners have already quit their exercise program. Don’t get caught giving up this year! Or try reframing your goal. Break it down to make it last!
It will be uncomfortable, hard, and time consuming, but if it matters to you it will be worth it.
Write it Out to Plan It Out
One effective way to solidify your commitment to change is by putting pen to paper. Writing down your goals and scheduling specific actions not only serves as a tangible reminder, but also helps you to articulate a clear plan for achieving your objectives. Consider creating a weekly schedule that outlines when and how you’ll incorporate exercise into your routine.
If weekly seems like too big a task all at once, focus on the day to day. How will I create a fitness moment for myself TODAY? When can I trade an unhealthy snack for something more nutritious? Will I take ten minutes to journal today? Take it slow and eventually you will create lasting habits.
Change it Up to Embrace Lasting Change!
To keep your fitness journey engaging and effective, consider incorporating variety into your routine. Cross-training not only helps prevent injuries but also staves off boredom. Mix in a combination of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises throughout your week to target different aspects of your fitness.
If healthier eating is your ultimate goal, try cuisines from all over the world! There are so many great recipes out there that are a click away. Maybe you know the protein you want for the day but not how to prepare it. Put a google document together of everything you want to try and start marking them off as the new year progresses. This is a great way to embrace lasting change and make it fun!
And remember – focus on the present—identify when, where, and how you’ll accomplish your goals. This mindfulness can help you stay committed to your daily exercise goals.
Explore Transformation Potential
Studio B has curated a selection of programs aimed at helping you create your best self. So if you are having trouble creating your own fitness plan, reach out!
Studio B’s aim is for lasting transformations in various aspects of your life. So while you countdown to the New Year, see what may speak to you.
Let the transformation begin!
Thank you for taking the first step in your journey to creating your self and embrace lasting change.
Taking time to understand our goals and committing to them IS HARD but once you start doing it, eventually it becomes routine!
Learn more, love yourself more, and reach out!
And as always, if you are struggling to engage fully in your life and would like to see how psychology might be able to help you contact me today!