January 1st is the most popular day of the year for individuals to set forth in making change. We tend to call this desire for change a New Year’s Resolution - although New Year’s goals, passions, intentions, and desires are also common.

Some of the most common resolutions are often related to health, fitness and nutrition. Get in shape, eat healthier, lose weight, become more active…. We start off with the best of intentions as the sun rises on the glorious magical day of January 1st. Unfortunately, by February 1st the majority have yet again thrown in the towel.

If only it was as easy as flipping a switch. Change is not easy. But the good news is change is possible. We all have the ability to change, but it won’t come easy. A great amount of time and commitment is required. Real change is slow and steady. In today’s world of instant gratification, we are often put off by anything that takes time.

There are a few things you can do that make success more achievable.

Having a plan in place, along with support are crucial in reaching your goals. Without a plan you won’t know what to do moving forward and support helps keep you accountable. Having a SMART Goal is an amazing tool I use with all my clients. We will dive deeper into SMART Goals at a later time.

Knowing WHY you are looking to change is also necessary. One of the other questions I always inquire into with clients is the why behind their desire for change. “Why do you want to change?” Why do you want to eat healthier, lose weight….? If you have reasons why you desire to change it is easier to stick with your commitment to change.

An example is a young mom who wants to lose weight. Her reason why may be, so she has more energy to play with her children. Or perhaps she wants to avoid becoming diabetic like her parents. Maybe she has a desire to complete a 5K this year. Having personal specific reasons why you desire the intended change is an important piece of the puzzle. It keeps you on track and assists you in gathering the resolve to keep moving forward.

Are you ready? Before making another resolution ask yourself if you are ready to commit yourself to putting in the work. No one is judging you. If you aren’t ready that is perfectly fine. You are contemplating change which is a wonderful 1st step. Starting a new fitness program at the same time you start a new job or are dealing with a loss of childcare would be difficult. It’s better to embark on change when you are emotionally, mentally and physically prepared.

Set yourself up for success. Remember there is no one magic day of the year that you can make change. Change is possible on any of the 365 days of the year. Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!!