Every New Year’s Eve, we ambitiously make resolutions that we intend to keep. Unfortunately, keeping those resolutions is easier said than done.
For many of us, we set many long-term goals as a New Year’s resolution. Setting long-term goals, such as losing a certain amount of weight without a plan or outline of specific ways to accomplish that goal, often sets us up for failure. This is why experts recommend that we achieve long-term goals by making a plan and taking small incremental steps that help us change our behaviors over time. These behavioral modifications must be repeated for them to become routine.
Here are some additional tips to help you stay on track with keeping your New Year’s resolution:
- Instead of stopping an old habit, try starting a new habit. Rather than stop eating candy, try to eat more fruits and vegetables. Starting a new habit can push an old habit aside, which may make it more likely that you will stick with your new routine
- Add another habit onto one of your current ones. For example, you can do stretches after brushing your teeth. Pairing a new habit with an old or current one can be an effective way to create a long-term lifestyle change
- Focus on the process of achieving your goal rather than focusing on the outcome. Fixating on the outcome can cause you to be discouraged when you have trouble accomplishing that goal
- Track your progress by using an app, journal, or calendar to help you monitor the progress you are making. Keeping data on your progress can be a positive reinforcement and help keep you accountable
- Plan ahead by considering any challenges you may face while trying to keep your resolution. For example, if you are trying to eat healthy, think about what you are going to buy at the grocery store or what you may order at a restaurant. If you are trying a new exercise routine, schedule when you are going to exercise so it doesn’t conflict with any other activities
- Give yourself grace when you make a mistake. Being negative and self-critical when you mess up may make you less likely to stick to your new habits. Be more compassionate with yourself and be as consistent as you can
If you would like help keeping your New Year’s health resolutions, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.