As we approach the new year, most of us will make New Year’s resolutions with very good intentions to lose weight, stop smoking, get fit or perhaps eat better. Despite our good intentions, many of us will let our resolution fall by the wayside. For most, New Year’s resolutions dwindle within 4 weeks. Why? Well, it is often because we do not have a clear plan of action and accountability that motivates or inspires us to keep moving forward.
To help achieve your resolution, begin to think about it as short or long term goals instead of a resolution. Start by keeping a journal and writing down what you want to achieve in the next month, 3 months, and 6 months. Make sure your goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely.
Then, make a plan. Having a specific list of actions to propel you forward and help get you over any hurdles you may encounter, like a smorgasbord of unhealthy food or bad weather that keeps you from getting to the gym, can make all the difference in keeping you on track.
Next, hold yourself accountable. Your SMART goals and plan of action need to be backed up by accountability. Know the consequences for straying from your plan…and reward yourself for meeting specific milestones.
Finally, get support. Having a trusted wellness professional by your side, or a network of friends, co-workers and others with similar goals, can be an invaluable tool to help you meet your goals. They will help you follow through with your plan, hold you accountable, support you in your struggles, and celebrate your successes!
The Y is a great place to find support, whether it’s in a Zumba or yoga class, in the pool or in our wellness center, there are lots of opportunities to connect with people who share your goals. We also have wellness coaches to educate and support you, and a great Y Rewards: Healthy program that will not only help you meet your SMART goals, it will also reward you along the way.
No matter what you have done in the past that has not given you the success you wanted, take a deep breath and move forward for the New Year!
Our Y Rewards: Healthy Living Program provides you with tools and support to help you live a healthy, active life. Through this FREE program, we’ll help you meet your wellness goals, feel better, and we’ll reward you along the way!
We will match you with a personal wellness coach to guide you and encourage you. They will familiarize you with our wellness center, equipment, and programs; and work with you to customize an exercise program just for you! You will meet with your coach four times over a three month period, with an option for two additional appointments.
Plus, you and your coach will have ongoing email communication via our MobileFit Fitness and Nutrition Tracking system. Through this system, you will earn points for rewards, all while working towards your health and fitness goals.
Click here for more information or contact Alex Burdzy at our Indian Valley Branch at 215-723-3569 ext 119 or Karen Rice at our Lansdale Branch at 215-368-1601 ext 207.