It’s the beginning of a brand-new year which means everyone is feeling inspired to set a new year’s resolution. Not surprisingly, most resolutions fall under the same category; health and weight loss.
A survey about New Year’s resolutions published by Inc. has found that the top three resolutions are to:
- Diet or eat healthier
- Exercise more
- To lose weight
Another survey by FranklinCovey found that one third of resolutioners didn’t take their resolutions past the end of January.
The reality is most people do not stick to their new year’s resolutions throughout the year. However, we want to help you achieve your goals in the new year and equip you with the tools that you need so you can leap over any hurdles that come your way.
Let’s start at the very beginning – here are 8 universal ways to stay motivated to achieve your new year’s resolution in 2020:
Make sure the resolution is achievable
When setting your resolution; try to make it personal and be realistic.
A weight loss resolution is for yourself and no one else. Therefore, you have to be considerate to your own capabilities. For example, a realistic goal is to obtain a healthy BMI.
Have a positive relationship with change
Your own mindset plays a huge role in sticking to a resolution.
Make 2020 a year of personal growth; leaving the past behind you along with all your unhealthy habits.
Accept that your life is going to be different from this point onwards. You’re leaving your comfort zone, and you’re doing this to become a better version of yourself.
Changing your mindset will help you be mentally prepared for this journey.
Create a plan
It will be easier to stick to your resolution if you have a game plan.
Factors to take into consideration include:
- Gradual lifestyle changes
- Mindset shifts
- Medical assistance
For a lot of our patients, they have been unable to make a noticeable change to their weight with diet and exercise alone. This is completely normal. If this sounds like you, talk to your doctor about medical assistance.
If you do not have a regular GP, contact Surgical Weight Loss Centre as we have practicing GP’s in our practice who can help create a plan specific to your body and lifestyle.
Be realistic and recognise the process
Weight loss is not instantaneous, it is situated in the process. It is unrealistic to immediately change your entire lifestyle and stick to it. It is more constructive to make gradual changes.
One of the biggest changes that most people who want to lose weight will make is to their diet. Rather than make these changes by yourself, consult a weight loss professional who can help you make sure that you are getting the nutrience you need.
Benefit from social influence
Find a community of likeminded resolutioners and look for support groups, forums, and events where you can meet new people.
Also, talk to the people you care about. You might discover people in your life who are also reaching for the same goal and you can keep each other accountable.
Surrounding yourself with positive reinforcement and people who you can relate to can make the process easier and more fun.
Cut back on bad influences
They say negativity is like weeds – it grows quickly. When you surround yourself with people who do not understand or support the changes that you are making, it can be difficult for you to stay on top of your goals.
This is not to say that you should or have to completely cut these people out of your life. Instead, make sure that your interactions with them are on your terms.
For example, rather than going out to dinner, cook a healthy meal for them at home.
Prepare for obstacles
Your journey will never be a straight incline. The key to tackling obstacles is positive reinforcement.
Try not to focus on the negative aspects of your weight loss. Instead, reframe these accusations and focus on the positive. For example:
- Not seeing enough results > Considering where I started, I have come a long way
- Falling off the wagon > It’s okay that I slipped, what’s important is that I get back on track
- Comparing your results to others > I am on my journey. The only person I can compare myself to is myself.
You can start fresh
If you miss your goal, don’t give up!
This is one of the main reasons why people don’t stick to their resolutions past January. If you fall off the wagon, try a different approach or find positive reinforcement.
Contrary to popular belief, your resolution does not have to start on January 1st; any day is a good day to better yourself and your way of life.
Start the new year with a bang
If losing weight is one of your resolutions for the new year, come along to our FREE Weight Loss Information Nights.
At Surgical Weight Loss Centre, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and attending one of our info nights is a great way to find more information about your surgical and non-surgical weight loss options, meet likeminded individuals and people who have already undergone a weight loss journey, and get more inspired to start your own journey.
To register your interest, visit our events page.