Why do we make New Year’s Resolutions (NYR’S)? Because, we want to improve ourselves, our situations, our lives. This is good, very positive. And, what usually happens after two or three weeks into the New Year? We give up! O how sad, how human . But, making resolutions is a good and important practice, akin to getting started on the right track. Therefore, I have decided that the focus of this issue will be on New Year’s resolutions; how to make them, how to keep them and be successful. That’s good, very positive!
Although we all have many points on which we need to improve J , I suggest that you keep your NYR list very short – 1 or 2 max. This factor alone will augment greatly your chances for success. You will not end up defeated by your list. For, as we all know, to change a bad habit, or make a lifestyle adjustment is simply not that easy.
Next step: choose a goal for which you have a deep desire, or vital need. This honest desire/need will buttress your success. Success will build your confidence and fuel your motivation and perseverance thus creating a positive reinforcement cycle which will give you the courage to follow through with your goal. Finally choose a goal that is within your reach … if you can’t walk up the hill behind your house, don’t reach for the Himalayas !
Once you have made a well thought out choice you will need a strategy for success. You will need to develop a plan, surround yourself with support (friends, family, teacher, class) and acquire the tools or tricks of the trade necessary to achieve your goal. Don’t be afraid to seek out help if you need to; hire a lifestyle consultant, nutritionist or trainer, see a therapist or financial consultant. Perhaps you need to join a group or find a partner. Don’t be afraid to act. Focus on what you want, rather than on what you can’t do. Take the leap.
Now listen to me. No one is 100% successful everyday when they attempt to make changes. We all lapse back into our weaknesses or bad habits because these are connected to our emotions, to our beliefs, to our levels of stress and lifestyles. Whenever any one of these aspects gets out of balance they will trigger our weaknesses and bad habits. So, and this is critical , don’t give up just because you have had a relapse for a few days or because you feel bad. Don’t use that as an excuse to give up . Just start up again and continue the best that you can. The more conscious and proactive you are in this process, the better your progress. Please don’t give up on yourself. You are definitely worth the effort. And remember, yes you can! I know you can.
As you know, I am at your service to help you achieve your fitness and well being resolutions. In this spirit I have created, for this winter session a new, healthy weight program, as well a variety of other group fitness classes given in Ste-Adele, St-Sauveur and Morin Heights and St-Adolph d’Howard. Please join me. I wish you all health (of course), enjoyment and success in 2012.
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