2017 is here and the team at Odyssey Center is ready for another exciting year of teaching and learning. For some people, the New Year brings about the possibility of a fresh start. Leaving all of the disappointments of 2016 in the past is the best way to make the most out of 2017. If you are like most people, making New Year’s resolutions is important. Check out these tips on how to make the resolutions you have made stick.
One Change at a Time
The biggest mistake most people make when trying to make their New Year’s resolutions stick is making multiple changes in their life all at once. This will usually lead to you becoming a bit overwhelmed and may result in your failing to achieve your New Year’s goals.
Rather than making multiple drastic changes all at once, pace yourself. If you have goals to lose weight and quit smoking, split them up. Usually, putting down cigarettes comes before losing weight. You may put on a few pounds when you stop smoking, but the exercise should come easier. Getting off nicotine and then getting on to your weight loss goals makes more sense and will help you avoid stress.
Setting Smaller, Achievable Goals
Setting your New Year’s goals too high can lead to a lot of disappointment. Instead of committing to losing 50 pounds, why not start a bit smaller? Making a goal to lose 10 pounds is a lot easier and will allow you to gain a bit of momentum before kicking your fitness goals into high gear. Meeting these smaller goals will also give you more confidence when it comes to meeting your New Year’s goals.
Revitalize Your Willpower
Sticking to New Year’s resolutions will take a lot of willpower. While you may think you have an infinite supply of willpower, the fact is, you will feel a bit defeated at times. When you face lulls in drive, take a break and recharge your batteries. By watching a funny movie or anything else that makes you happy, you will be able to refocus your energy.
Consume Some Vitamin C
If you are trying to lose weight, you need to remember not to deprive your body of essential nutrients. In some instances, a person will eat very little throughout the course of a day to try and lose a couple pounds. This leads to a lower blood glucose levels in the body and ultimately makes you less healthy. One of the best ways to boost glucose levels is by consuming a cup of orange juice. Make sure to keep your diet well-rounded and don’t go skipping meals. In fact, eating many, smaller meals is recommended to keep your metabolism in gear.
Avoid Making Absolutes
Another common mistake made when trying to reach New Year’s goals is making goals and expectations too cut and dry. Not allowing for any wiggle room in your resolutions can lead to frustration. Instead of trying to give up all sweets, try cutting down on the frequency and the amount you consume. Going cold-turkey can backfire, increasing the tension you have with the resolution process.
Jumpstart Your Confidence
Before pursuing your New Year’s resolutions, sit down and make a list of things you are proud of. This list can include anything from getting out of bed on time to not fighting with your spouse. Putting this all down on paper can make you feel a lot better about yourself and give you the confidence to face your resolutions head-on.
Spread Positivity
The best way to feel better about yourself is by doing good deeds for others. If you are feeling down or defeated, donating to a charity or volunteering may be just what you need to get back on track. Even the little things make a difference on your attitude for the day.
Remove As Much Temptation as Possible
Dealing with temptation can be very hard when trying to lose weight or quitting smoking. The best thing you can do when trying to keep your willpower is to remove as much temptation as possible. Throw out the junk food or cigarettes. By removing these things, you will find it much easier to stay on track.
With a bit of hard work and effort, you will be able to meet your goals for 2017 with ease. Whether you are struggling with addiction, or looking to have a more productive 2017, the Odyssey Center can help.
