Can you keep your New Year’s Resolutions?
As the year 2021 is at the end, we begin to look forward toward 2022, and with that may come New Year’s Resolutions. In the past, I have been successful with sticking with my resolutions. Last year, I met my goal of holding a 5-minute plank. Years ago, I walked one mile every single day, whether I had to do laps in my apartment or stroll around an airport. I am in the minority for New Year’s Resolution success stories. From conversations with patients and friends, it seems like most peoples’ resolutions last only a brief time — weeks to months. Therefore, I would like to share five tips on how to be successful when setting a New Year’s Resolution, using the acronym SMART, based on Peter Drucker’s Management by Objectives.
S is for specific. Pick a specific goal to make it easier for you to focus your effort. For example, rather than making a goal of getting healthy, instead pick eat a serving of vegetables at each meal or to lose 10 lbs.
M is for measurable. Piggybacking off the first tip, make sure your goal is measurable to know you are being successful. I once heard, you have to complete something for at least 21 days before it becomes a habit. Utilize a calendar or visual aid to check off each day you complete or follow your New Year’s Resolution. This gives visual encouragement to stick with your goal.
A is for achievable. Choosing a resolution that is realistic and attainable is crucial to your success. Let’s say your goal is to exercise more. If you typically exercise 2-3 days per week, make your goal to exercise at least 4 days per week as opposed every day. Sometimes when goals are too challenging, they become stressful and thus a reason people quit. You can always progress your resolution in the middle of the year once you are successful.
R is for Relevant. This is the most important tip. When thinking of your new year’s resolution, pick something that will change your life for the better. Do not just pick a goal that your friend is doing. Walking 1 mile a day improved my mental health, gave me exercise, and allowed me to walk my dog consistently. Holding a 5-minute plank allowed me to consistently work my core and prevent back pain.
T is for Time-Bound. With a New Year’s Resolution, you already have a set time frame to complete your goal. If you wanted to take it a step further, you could make your resolution progressive. For example, every 3 months you could increase the distance you run or the number of pages you read daily.
I hope this helps you achieve your New Year’s Resolution! And of course, we are always here to help at WWSPT, Wendy Webb Schoenewald Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation, Doylestown, PA.
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