DITCH THE
RESOLUTIONS!
Focus on Creating Micro Goals and Healthy Habits for Long-Term Success By Gini Grimsley The holiday season is a great time to look back at what we have achieved during the past year and to set goals we want to accomplish in the new year. When we think of resolutions, we typically think of big, lofty goals that bring sweeping lifestyle changes. But let’s be real; these often fail.
We all know the cycle. We jump into the first week of January inspired and on fire to make changes and implement new habits. But by the time February rolls around, we’ve completely given up. Why? The main issue isn’t the resolution; it’s the plan to get there— or the lack thereof. Without setting micro goals along the way, we struggle to stay motivated when we encounter a roadblock or hurdle. 70 www.sghealthandwellnessmagazine.com
It usually takes about twenty-one days to create a new habit. In order to make a permanent change, stair-step your way into larger behavioral changes. Adjusting a habit can be viewed as a micro goal (or micro resolution), which can be re-evaluated as the year goes on so that you can continue to improve and get closer to reaching your ultimate goal. Creating healthy habits is a much more effective way to have a positive, long-lasting impact on your health.
To get started, think about your focus for the year. If your goals are related to health and fitness, think about the things you need more or less in order to be healthy in the new year. Maybe it’s to sleep more, eat better, exercise more regularly, or reduce stress. Whatever
