So, anyone make New Year's Resolutions a few months back? And how are they going with the summer months just around the corner? It may be shocking, but some of us do not do resolutions. I am one of those. I mean, sure, there are things I might like to improve. I might like to be more organized, and I definitely want to get more sleep! But I don't think change happens overnight. It's a process. So I don't make the kind of vows that start with, "From now on..." It might work for some, but for me personally, I may just be setting myself up for disappointment. And that is no way to begin a new year.
Are there changes you'd like to make? Goals you'd like to reach? If you have resolved to make positive changes in your life, you're headed in the right direction-you are moving forward. Weather you want to exercise more or make healthier food choices, better financial decisions, or increase your faith, there are opportunities for growth all around us. The question is this: Will you take them? Will you grab hold of them and make the most of it? It's up to you!
Here are just a few things to consider in the midst of it:
1. Be realistic! Don't set outrageous expectations for yourself. If you have never worked out a day in your life, don't resolve to exercise two hours a day, five days a week. Take it slow. Make long term goals that meet or exceed your expectations. Then, make short-term goals that you can focus on and achieve. Each small achievement will boost your confidence and ultimately help you go the distance.
2. Don't beat yourself up. Hey, we all get down from time to time, about one thing or another. It's okay to get disappointed, but the longer we focus on what we aren't doing "right", the more time and opportunity wasted. Keep moving. Find motivation. Seek it out!
3. Partner up! It is so much easier to achieve a goal, especially a fitness goal, when you have a buddy coming along for the ride. You keep each other motivated and accountable. And it's just more fun with a friend!
4. Write it down. Keeping a journal is one of the best ways to organize your thoughts. When you keep a journal, you can keep your intentions and goals in focus, while charting your progress along the way. You can always go back and see just how far you've come.
5. Have fun! During some recent travels,I knew that my exercise regimen would take a back seat to family events, etc. My sleeping schedule was a bit out of whack, I didn't have access to a gym, and my calendar was pretty booked. To top it off, my rugged stroller was back at home and I had my not-so-high-tech umbrella one...with the wobbly wheels.
So? I improvised. I made extra trips up and down stairs, I stretched in line at the airport, while waiting to board the plane. And I acted like a kid...When I tried to get a little cardio in on a stroller walk with my daughter, my attempt to run proved to be nearly impossible with that stroller. I suddenly had the idea to do something I hadn't done in years (well, outside my home anyway). SKIP!!! Yes, skip. The gardeners looked at me sideways, but I was having too much fun to care. Let me tell you, skipping is quite the buns and thigh workout!
Are you ready for change? Are you up for the challenge? It's a brand new day. Opportunities await. Seize them. And have fun! Try something new. Sign up for a Pilates class. Take up kickboxing. Do something you haven't done in years. Run barefoot on the beach, jump rope with your kids, or skip through your neighborhood. Go ahead, I dare you!