Turn Resolutions Into Results: Your Roadmap to a Healthier New Year

Making resolutions is a tradition for millions of Americans. While choosing a resolution can be easy, sticking to them is hard. A YMCA survey found that less than a quarter of respondents kept their resolutions. Many (71 percent) tried, but stated that they fell short of their goals, while 40 percent confessed that they gave up within the first few months, even weeks.

While there is no “right way” to keep a resolution, the YMCA of Southwestern Indiana encourages you to give your resolutions a boost by:

1. Start small –  Break those big resolutions into small, achievable goals. “’Getting healthy’ is too broad so reframe that big resolution into smaller, more manageable goals. Instead of cutting chocolate out of your diet for good, vow to only have it a few times a week. Or try the “Steps to a Healthier You” class at the Y or even Nutritional Counseling or Personal Training.

2. Take it one step at a time – Trying to change too many habits at once can easily lead to frustration. Instead of a New Year’s resolution, make a new month resolution. Focus on that one change for the month and add another (small) change when the new month rolls around.

3. Keep the faith – Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Even though you may experience some missteps throughout the day—or even the week—that doesn’t mean you have to give up. Bad habits aren’t created in a week, so try as you might, you can’t change them in a week either.

4. It’s all about attitude – It’s important to think about what you’re gaining from a resolution rather than what you’re missing. This can make a resolution feel more positive, and therefore more achievable. For example, you may want to limit your screen time, but that can be more manageable if you replace it with something positive like volunteering (at the Y) or setting special time aside for family. Disconnecting can lead to connecting.

5. Talk it out – It’s easier to stick to your resolutions if you have a partner or friend working toward similar goals. Team up with someone to set your goals and help each other establish a game plan dedicated to achieving them. Set specific check-ins to help each other out of slumps and to cheer each other during the high points.

Look to the YMCA to be your support system and help you towards your goals. With classes, community, and camaraderie – there’s nothing we can’t do together. From youth sports and afterschool programs to family activities and personal wellness, there’s something for everyone. There’s no place like the Y. Make this place your “Show Up For Each Other Place”.  Visit us at www.ymcaswin.org or stop by one of our Evansville or Princeton branches to learn more.