1. Break your resolution down in to small, achievable goals. Rather than ‘exercise more’, you could pledge to walk to work 3 days a week, vouch to always take the stairs instead of the lift or escalators, or join a weekly exercise class. This gives you a starting point to actually take action, rather than a wishy-washy statement with no clear next steps.
2. We know from our last blog post that healthier eating and exercising more are the UK’s most popular resolutions – so you’re bound to know someone with the same goals as you. Buddy up with a someone else, and whether you feel (friendly!) competition, or feel like you’re working together as a team – having somebody to check in on you and support you will keep your motivation going.
3. Have you heard the expression “fail to prepare, prepare to fail”? It’s true for more than just exam revision! Planning meals in advance will help you to buy only the healthy ingredients you need, and avoid you falling into the trap of getting a takeaway or convenience food when you’re hungry and in a rush. Similarly, plan when and how you’re going to get active; whether that’s setting aside time in the morning to get some extra steps in, or going to the gym with a workout plan.
4. Don’t give in to what we call the ‘What The Hell Effect’ – letting one small setback lead to another, and then another, and then giving up entirely. We’re all human and we all give in to temptation from time to time, whether that’s tucking into the biscuit tin a few too many times or skipping your morning spin class to have a long lie in. And that’s OK! But don’t beat yourself up about it, and don’t let it send you on the slippery slope back towards your old habits. Enjoy your biscuit or your lie in, and then crack on with your healthy plan.
5. Positive vibes only please – having the right mindset is key. Making healthier choices will lead to feeling healthy, improved mood, a healthier weight and increased confidence – so think about the great things you’re working towards, rather than the negative, unhealthy things you want to leave behind. A negative mindset leads to disappointment and frustration, while a positive one leads to success and fulfilment.
