As we find ourselves in the middle of 2023, it’s worth reflecting: how many of us have stayed committed to our New Year’s resolutions? This question might not have crossed your mind as you anticipate the summer months. But if you’re like many, those ambitious plans set in January might now seem like a distant memory.
You’re not alone in this struggle. Statistics reveal that a mere 9% of Americans achieve their New Year’s resolutions. Shockingly, 23% don’t even make it past the first week of the year, and 43% fizzle out before February rolls in. Interestingly, the most common type of goal set is related to fitness.
While striving for better physical health is commendable, why do so many falters in achieving fitness goals? There are many reasons why commitments to exercise, healthier eating, and general well-being may wane. It could be the lack of a workout buddy, difficulty in meal planning, or simply needing more hours in the day to tick off everything on the health checklist.
But fear not, if the prospect of setting and sticking to health-related goals feels overwhelming, take a breath. Remember, you’re capable of this! Recognizing the challenges, USANA Health Sciences launched the #StartSomething campaign last summer, offering guidance to kickstart and sustain healthier habits while positively impacting our communities.
Here are six easy-to-implement strategies to sidestep burnout and keep progressing toward your health goals:
- Craft a Sustainable Plan: Merely stating “Eat healthier” as a goal won’t cut it. It’s essential to map out a step-by-step plan. Think of goal setting as a journey from point A to point B. Start by assessing where you are and want to be, and chart how to get there. Utilize the S.M.A.R.T. criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. For instance, specific nutrient intake or calorie consumption targets should be set instead of a vague goal. Plan meals with easy and nutritious recipes that align with your goals, ensuring sustainability.
- Simplify: Health doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Incorporate simple habits like taking supplements, reading before bed, drinking more water, or enjoying outdoor activities. Keeping it straightforward makes it easier to integrate into your busy lifestyle.
- Buddy Up: Having a support system significantly enhances goal adherence. Share your objectives with someone who cares, building a network that keeps you accountable and motivated. Whether running with a friend, organizing a dog-walking group, hitting the gym together, or arranging healthy potlucks at work, camaraderie fuels progress.
- Embrace Novelty: Introducing new activities into your fitness routine prevents monotony and sparks enthusiasm. Challenge yourself by trying different exercises or outdoor pursuits. Whether rock climbing, joining a local sports league, or exploring hiking trails, embracing novelty revitalizes your routine.
- Engage with Community: Giving back not only benefits others but also enhances your well-being. Participate in community service activities to stay active and connect with new people. Whether running a charity marathon, helping neighbors with yard work, or volunteering at local shelters, contributing positively impacts physical, mental, and emotional health.
- Cultivate Positivity: Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial for sustaining motivation. Visualize success and believe in your capabilities. Research the benefits of healthy habits, practice daily affirmations, and surround yourself with positivity to stay focused and resilient.
By incorporating these straightforward strategies into your daily life, you’ll find it easier to stay on track with your health goals, making sustainable progress towards a healthier, happier you.
