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New Years fitness and weight loss resolutions are a waste of your time. Not sure about this, but I'm guessing that I'm one of the very few Fitness Pros that will be dolling out this advice.
There are so many statistics out there and it's very hard to get a handle on what's exactly true, but according to meyouhealth.com 88% of all resolutions fail. So why not try something different this year and forget about setting unrealistic promises to yourself that are almost guaranteed not to happen.
Instead, how about focusing on making activity a habit, just like brushing your teeth. Most of us wouldn't dream about walking out of the house in the morning without brushing our teeth. However, those who struggle with weight loss, health and fitness hardly have the thought cross their mind to make moving more a part of their daily regimen.
I've often wondered why I'm so different? Why is it a given for me that I'll do some type of activity daily, while so many of my family members, friends and clients struggle with it?
Well there's a reason and it's much like learning a new sport or dance move. It all comes down to wiring. No not the electrical wiring in your home, but the wiring in your brain. In order for new behaviors to stick, you've got to change your neural pathways, memories and default thinking when your faced with the decision of "to exercise or not to exercise". For example, trying to change a habit by "trying to do it" only re-enforces and strengthens the old behavior.
Positive change in anything requires action, new neural pathways and new thinking.
If you want things to be different and ditch the same ol same ol, check out the 5 step plan for lasting positive change below.
5 Steps For Positive Change
1.) Focus on 1 habit at a time. Trying to take anything more than baby steps only sets you up for failure.
2.) Have an accountability buddy, trainer or group to help you stay on track. Social support is a must for lasting success.
3.) Celebrate your success each and every day you perform the new activity that you desire to be a habit. Don't wait until it becomes second nature like brushing your teeth.
4.) Focus your thinking on your new behaviors and thought patterns. Burning those new neural pathways is a must.
5.) Zero in on the present and be mindful of your physical, emotional and mental inner state and think of one thing that you can do today that will bring you closer to your new positive ritual.
Share this with a friend if you thought it was helpful and have a Happy New Year!