December 29, 2022 | Blog
From Resolution to Reality: How to Set and Achieve Healthy New Year’s Goals
By Zach Schmit, PN1-NC, NASM-CPT
As the new year approaches, it’s no secret that many people make resolutions or set goals for themselves in the hopes of improving their lives in some way. This could mean improving your mental or physical health, your financial circumstances, your relationships, your spiritual journey, and other areas important to you. While setting goals can be a great way to motivate and focus your efforts, it’s important to make sure that the goals you set for yourself are truly achievable. Here are some tips for setting healthy new year’s goals:
- Start with self-reflection: Before you set any goals, it’s important to take some time to think about what you really want and what is most important to you. What are your values and priorities? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Consider what changes you would like to make in your life and why.
- Make your goals specific and measurable: Vague or overly broad goals can be hard to achieve and often lack the necessary motivation to keep you on track. Instead, make your goals specific and measurable so that you can track your progress and know when you have achieved them. For example, instead of setting a goal to “exercise more,” set a goal to “exercise for 30 minutes three times a week.”
- Set achievable goals: It’s important to challenge yourself, but it’s also important to make sure your goals are realistic and achievable. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment and frustration. Consider your current level of commitment, resources, and time when setting your goals.
- Make a plan: Once you have set your goals, make a plan for how you will achieve them. This can include breaking your goals down into smaller, more manageable tasks, setting deadlines, and finding ways to hold yourself accountable.
- Seek support: It can be helpful to share your goals with friends, family, or a support group. They can provide encouragement and accountability, and may even be able to offer helpful advice or resources.
- Be flexible: Life can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be willing to adapt and adjust your goals as needed. If you encounter setbacks or roadblocks, don’t be discouraged. Instead, consider what you can learn from the experience and make any necessary adjustments to your plan.
- Celebrate your successes: Don’t forget to celebrate your achievements along the way. This can help to motivate and sustain you on your journey towards your goals.
In summary, setting healthy new year’s goals involves self-reflection, setting specific and measurable goals, making a plan, seeking support, being flexible, and celebrating your successes. By following these tips, you can set goals that are both meaningful and achievable, and increase your chances of success in the new year.
Cheers to a healthier, even happier YOU in the year ahead!