Resolve To Succeed

By Carlos J. Berio, PT, DPT, MS, CSCS

SPARK Physiotherapy, LLC

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Resolve To Succeed

This time of year, we often make promises to ourselves. We say that we're going to get back into the gym; we're going to eat better; we're going to remove stress from our lives and appreciate those around us more.

Our hearts are always in the right place, but most New Year's resolutions fail because of poor planning, and because we set lofty and unrealistic goals that is if we set goals at all.

The resolution of losing 20 pounds in January is possible but unrealistic. From a health professional's standpoint, it's simply not healthy to lose weight that fast.

Saying you will go to the gym every day only sets you up for failure as it is practically impossible, and in most cases, generally a bad idea. This goal is especially hard if you're not accustomed to exercising on a regular basis, which is where the majority of people struggle.

Here is a formula for realistically making a lasting change in your health and wellness this 2011

1. Consult with a professional to set a realistic long-term goal.

2. Break this goal down into attainable and measurable short-term goals. Weekly goals are great. Monthly goals might give us too much wiggle room and negatively impact our planning.

3. Keep records using whatever system you put in place to track your progress.

Be honest with yourself and those who are helping you. If you strayed from your “perfect” meal plan, note that mistake and note why it happened. Did you miss a workout that you thought was well planned out? That's ok. We will all make those mistakes.

Learn why it didn't work for you that day or week and adjust your plan so that you know where you stand in terms of your long term goal.

4. Keep the goal in mind. Sometimes you will want to jump ship. Sometimes it may not seem worth it. If so, reexamine the long-term goal. Consult with your fitness professional. While it might have been realistic, it may not have been practical given your circumstances.

5. Make the adjustments and keep improving.

The trick is to set all of your goals and measures in a way that even if you fall short on any, you will come out at a better place in the end.