This year, make changes that will stick!

The new year is always an exciting time of new beginnings and fresh inspiration! Unfortunately, many good intentions and promises will fall by the wayside by the time February and March roll around. 2013 can be different for you! Here are some tips for creating goals that you won't abandon.

Think Small
If your list of resolutions could be gathered together as a small book, you will burn out quickly. Instead of trying to improve every minute detail of your life, focus on one or two areas that could really be transformed with few simple habits. Examples might be adding a salad to your dinner every night, creating a quick workout routine you can easily complete every morning before work, or establishing a set bedtime to ensure you're getting enough sleep. Once these habits are second nature, build on them!

Get Specific
The resolutions most likely to fail are vague and unmeasurable. "Eating better" and "exercising more" are common goals, but what do they mean? Effective goals could be to:

• track your calories every day
• stop eating between meals
• add more greens to your diet
• cut back on sugar, sodium, or fatty foods (pick a daily limit)
• walk or jog at least 6 miles a week

Find Your Motivation
Changing, breaking, or adding habits is always challenging. If you aren't passionate about your resolutions, you won't keep them. It's even better to pick goals that your family and friends will support you on. Ask your loved ones to check in with you and hold you accountable.

A little education can go a long way toward meeting your goals. Stop by our online library any time you need more information about a healthcare topic. If you have any further health questions or would like a physician referral, call our Consult-A-Nurse® service at (305) 285-2929.

Related Posts:
It's Not Too Late To Quit Smoking
Weight Loss: What to Do When You've Tried Everything