It’s the time of year when many of us create ambitious New Year’s resolutions and with good intentions to follow through. We reflect on the past year and want certain changes to be made for ourselves in the current year. But, let’s face it, for most of the population, these resolutions often don’t survive past February.
But, if we label it as a “Lifestyle Change” and view it as a “Lifestyle Change,” you will have a higher chance of keeping the commitment to yourself long term. So, what’s the difference between a lifestyle change and a new year’s resolution?
Lifestyle changes are intended to be ongoing and integrated into daily life, while New Year’s resolutions are typically focused on achieving a goal within a specific timeframe, like a year. In theory, we all start the year out with a positive attitude and get fired up having a clean slate, a fresh start.
Focus on what will improve your life in the long run, not just some temporary fix that won’t last. Whatever the change that you want to make for yourself, it needs to be realistic to your life to have the greatest chance of success.
Here are some tips on how to make your lifestyle changes stick long term this New Year…
• Create S.M.A.R.T. Goals
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely.
• Be Consistent
Depending on what your change is, choose a regular time each day or stay committed daily each week for your new habit to become part of your routine without any thought.
• Mindset
Think about a lifestyle change as an ongoing process of self growth, not just a temporary goal to achieve by a certain date.
• Have a Purpose
Having a strong purpose as to why you are choosing this change for your life will make all the difference and you will have better success to keep going throughout the year and your life.
• Find an Accountability Person
Sharing your goals and progress with someone will create accountability and can greatly improve your chances of success.
• Be Flexible
It’s OK to adjust your goals and methods as you go along. If you miss a day or encounter a setback, don’t be hard on yourself. Pick up where you left off and keep moving forward.
Ashley LaMorte is a nationally certified fitness instructor and has been in the fitness industry close to a decade. Over the years, she has gotten the opportunity to instruct group X boot camps at gyms and train private clients from all walks of life, all over the Bay Area. She now has her own mobile fitness business LaMorte Lift. Learn more at LaMorteLift.com.
