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Every January 1, many of us make New Year’s resolutions to live a healthier lifestyle. Although most start enthusiastically, staying the course is more challenging. To help you have a healthy New Year, Advantage Care Health Centers has some helpful hints that help you stay on the right track.
Set S-M-A-R-T Goals
To live a healthier lifestyle, set resolutions that are not only meaningful but achievable. All too often, people fall into the trap of making New Year’s resolutions that are too vague, are too unrealistic, or are based on goals set by someone else.
The key is to make your goals SMART:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
For example, instead of making vague plans to exercise after dinner, set a goal to walk for exercise for a half-hour twice a week. A SMART goal like this makes it easier to monitor your progress and stay on track to enjoy the benefits of a healthy New Year.
Create a Plan for Success
Once you have a better sense of your healthy living resolutions, the next step is developing a game plan.
Write down exactly how you plan to get from point A to point B. Consider potential obstacles and have a plan in place to address them as needed. For example, outline the steps you will take to adjust your meal planning strategy to encourage healthy eating habits.
When you have a detailed plan to follow, you will be better prepared to stick to your goals and will be in a better position to overcome obstacles along the way.
Take Small Steps (And Celebrate Them!)
Just about everyone has lofty resolutions for a healthy New Year. While your ultimate goal might be making major changes, consider breaking your big goal into several smaller ones. Taking on too much too soon is one reason many resolutions fail.
It’s better to take small steps that lead you down the path to reaching your overall goal. Making small, incremental changes to unhealthy habits will give you a better shot of having long-term success with your New Year’s resolution.
For example, let’s say you want to run a 5K in 2022. Instead of focusing only on this big goal, break it down into more manageable pieces:
- Jog for half-hour three times a week
- Work your way up to longer runs each month
- Run several shorter races before your first 5K
After you reach each milestone, don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done. Celebrating small victories will give you the momentum you need to achieve your goals.
Enjoy a Healthy New Year with Advantage Care Health Centers
If your goal is to have a healthy New Year, Advantage Care Health Centers is the place for you. We offer affordable health services to all members of the community. Our experienced health care professionals can assist you with primary and preventive care, dental care, and mental/behavioral health services.
Contact us today to request an appointment.
