Have you kept to your New Year’s resolution? We most likely started the year by going to the gym again, to lose the extra pounds gained throughout the holidays, we promised to get up earlier, go out more, save more, etc. However, research shows that 80% of these good intentions are already broken after the second week of February. That’s why we’re giving you some useful tips so you can stick to your good intentions.
Find the right motive
It’s not surprising that the most popular New Year’s resolution is usually the first to die: losing weight. Losing weight takes time and dedication. When you don’t immediately see tangible results, it’s tempting to give up. But, with the right motivation, you can keep going.
Therefore, try not to focus on losing weight fast, but on all the other ways in which exercise and healthy eating makes your life better. You feel fitter, happier and better about yourself. Also think about how good you will feel in your clothes later on and how special it will be if you can treat yourself to a beautiful piece of clothing that you never thought would fit.
Find a buddy
With the support of a friend or family member, it is easier to stick to your intentions. This reduces the temptation to cancel your resolutions.
With regard to going to the gym or taking classes in, for instance, yoga or pilates, it is more pleasant to go with a friend. Agree to get fit together by going to the gym or a class once or twice a week. This has the advantage of going together, reaffirming your goals and encouraging each other to continue, even though you may not enjoy the sport itself.
Source: ShutterstockLearn something new
Most people focus their New Year’s resolutions on reducing things. Less food, less spending, less stuff in the house, etc. However, instead of focusing on cutting back, it can be fun to learn something new.
For example, you can learn a new language. The advantages of learning a new language have long been known: it gives you more self-confidence, improves your memory, improves your chances on the job market and makes travelling more fun. So have you always wanted to learn to speak Italian? Or did you wish you hadn’t given up that Spanish lesson? Then the new year is your chance to fulfill your dream!
Set goals
Whatever your intentions, setting a specific goal can motivate you to continue. You have something to work towards. Your goals can be large or small, very personal or part of a larger group.
If you have decided to go jogging or running, try registering for a marathon. Give yourself time to train for this, but be realistic. You won’t suddenly turn from a coach potato into a top athlete. What you do get out of it is a healthier lifestyle, where you keep pushing yourself and are surprised by your own abilities every time.
Reward yourself
Keep a close eye on your progress. If you manage to persevere and achieve goals, it is important that you reward yourself. It can be very difficult to start playing sports or learn a new skill, and the cold winter weather doesn’t make it any easier. So don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back if you have persevered.
However, don’t try to reward yourself too often with what you’re trying to reduce. If you are trying to lose weight, for example, it is not wise to reward yourself often with food, or if you want to spend less money, it is not convenient to go shopping a lot. Rewarding yourself in moderation will give you the motivation to persevere and reach your final goal.
