Hot Health Tips | February 2005

Hot Health Tips

So, You've Made Your New Year's Resolutions…Now What?
By Dr. Marissa Bentham

It's past January 15th already, and it's probably safe to say that most people have already forgotten their 2005 resolution, or completely neglected to create one. Statistically speaking, less than 5% of those people who make New Year's resolutions actually keep them! But that's not going to happen to you, right? What is your 2005 resolution? What was it in 2004? Did you meet your goal? If the statistics are true, you probably fell short. Well, if you are determined to make it happen this year, then read on; you have the opportunity to make 2005 your year for success!

1. Write it down! Your goals must be written and as specific as possible. An unwritten goal is a wish and wishes rarely come true. Try this… "I will lose 3 dress sizes by Christmas 2005." If you are really determined, try writing down what you want your exact measurements to be at the end of the year.

2. Break it down. It's important to create a virtual road map to your ultimate goal. Think of 8-10 events and use them as milestones to build your motivation around. Committing to looking your best and wanting to feel great at these events will keep you focused for the whole year. For example, create a short-term goal, such as, "I'm going to lose one dress size by Valentine's Day, so I can show off my new Valentine's dress!" Once you've successfully reached that first milestone, turn your focus and get motivated for the next event, building your confidence along the way. Here is an example of some great motivational opportunities.

a. Feb- Valentine's Day
b. April- Easter
c. June- Family/ High School Reunion
d. July- Bathing suits, 4th of July
e. Sept- Wedding, Labor Day
f. Oct- Halloween
g. Nov- Thanksgiving
h. Dec- Christmas/ New Year's Resolutions

3. See it today! You need to visualize your end result starting today. Not tomorrow…today! They say that hikers who climb Mt. Everest have climbed the mountain in their mind 1000 times before they physically complete their goal! Make a reminder every night to close your eyes and visualize your goal, exactly as you want it, before you fall asleep. Look in your imaginary mirror and literally see the "new you" in your mind. If your mind can see it, your body will follow.

4. See your "why" everyday. If the why is big enough, you can accomplish anything! Identify the driving force behind your goal and make it visible, so that it will empower you and motivate you into Curves on the days you don't feel like it! Repetition is the key to success. It will help train your subconscious mind. For example, the statement "I will lose 3 dress sizes so I can feel confident in my bathing suit" can be placed on your bathroom mirror for you to see every morning when you wake up, and every night before you go to bed.

Finally, we all know that staying motivated throughout the year is tough, especially after the first month of excitement fades. If you write down the 8 milestones that we mentioned above, this will keep you motivated—step by step. Remember, once you've successfully reached one milestone, reward yourself! Treat yourself to a night out with your significant other, or just simply do something special for yourself. But you're not finished yet! Don't allow complacency and loss of focus to take over. Humans are creatures of habit, good and bad, and if we do something enough, it will become a habit. Try sharing your goal with someone that you trust, and have them check in with you to hold you accountable. Our staff members at Curves would be thrilled to help coach you along the way to meeting your goals. We wish you all success in 2005!