When it comes to setting goals for the New Year, it's important that you're making realistic resolutions.

2022 is almost here, and this year we tell ourselves we are going to live healthier, better lives – we will be more active, better manage our weight, and make more nutritious food choices. We will succeed and nothing is going to stop us. But are we making realistic resolutions?

In late December and early January, when we are still riding the holiday high and have had enough time to relax and reflect on what we could have done better over the last 12 months, we are anxious and enthusiastic for the improvements to begin and so it feels easy and we make lofty goals.

But as the months go by and the responsibilities pile up, tiredness kicks in and those “easy” New Year’s resolutions often fall by the wayside and we feel like we have failed. That’s why you should be realistic in your resolution making – pick small changes that are easy to put into practice, and you’ll improve your chances of sticking with your new routines and you will become a healthier, happier person.

• Be Realistic in Your Goal Setting – On New Year’s Eve, we feel a burst of excitement about the year ahead. All that enthusiasm can lead to setting New Year’s resolutions that are unrealistic and therefore unattainable.  Instead of saying you’ll make it to the gym every day all year or will lose 30 pounds by Valentine’s Day, aim for one or two smaller, sensible goals like cooking a healthy dinner at home at least four nights a week.  By giving yourself enough time and resources to accomplish your resolution, you’re setting yourself up for success.
  
• Write it Down – It’s easy to say you’re going to do something, but if you write it down, you automatically turn your thoughts into something tangible. Post your goals in a place where you’ll look at them on a regular basis.  Studies show that keeping a written record of your progress can also help you succeed.  By logging your weight each week or keeping a food journal, you may discover unhealthy patterns and be better able to pinpoint trouble spots.  When you succeed, be sure to celebrate!
  
• Invest in Your Success – If you’re serious about maintaining a healthy weight, invest in some things that are going to help you succeed.  Go out and get fitted for a new pair of sneakers.  Splurge on a few comfortable and stylish pieces of workout attire or a set of hand weights.  Invest in a gym membership or online training course.  Ask a friend to be your accountability partner. Having the right equipment and support at your fingertips will make it that much easier to stick to a new fitness plan – and since you’ve invested money, you may be less likely to find excuses to skip your workout.