Are Resolutions Bad for Us?

You might assume that as a Personal Trainer I would be all for New Year’s Resolutions. I mean what other time are people en masse so collectively committed to their fitness and health, even if it is only for a week or two? Well, that’s just it! Time and again these resolutions have proven to be unsuccessful on so many levels. In my experience only the MOST committed and determined person sticks with their plan and is successful. These people have a few things in common – they are QUADRUPLE A personalities, they are completely ready to make a change, they have a well thought-out, realistic plan to follow, and tons of support. I also find that resolutions do a few other things 1) it’s like a get out of jail free pass letting people feel it’s quite all right to be less conscientious about their eating and exercise during November and December because they’ll get back on track in January, or 2) some take it to excesses (no exercise, and purposeful overeating and drinking) before the big resolution day, sort of like a last hurrah, or 3) people get so depressed as the holidays wind down and all they have to look forward to is strict diets and intense exercise plans which just adds to the gloominess already setting in. Not a great way to begin a new year.

I’m not saying don’t make any resolutions but if you choose to do this, pick a realistic start date (Jan 1 may be an unwise choice). And start small and simple with your goals. IF these are manageable and sustainable, add on with slightly more challenging goals. Build up to the big goal, don’t’ try to scale the mountain in one leap.

Here are a few suggestions for realistic resolutions to get you on the right track:

1. Pick a good date to start. Let’s face it; Jan 1 is often a recovery day if not still a revelry one. In fact, some of us need that first week of January to get back to normal before undertaking new challenges.

2. If you want to boost your immunity, help with weight management and improve your mood try taking Omega-3 supplements. In North America, we are notoriously deficient in this wonderful fat that comes from fish. The task of swallow a few supplements daily is far surpassed by the benefits.

3. Drink more water. Find a system that works for you to increase your water consumption from recording the number of glasses, having designated water bottles to consume by a set times daily, to setting an alarm on your computer/phone to remind you to drink.

4. Get 7-8 hours sleep nightly. You may need to build up to this amount by going to bed 15-30 minutes earlier every few days until you reach your target bedtime.

5. Take a walk. Add a little more activity into your life easily by planning a walk one day a week. This could be a family affair after dinner or on weekends or fit in a walk with friends during the week.

Once these resolutions become habits, try setting new resolutions that may be more challenging. By starting with small adjustments, you are more likely to be successful at them, which will ultimately lead to bigger lifestyle changes down the road. So unrealistic resolutions can be detrimental but by taking some of the pressure off and with proper planning, resolutions can be useful in guiding you to better lifestyle habits.