Five Resolutions That Aren't "Eat Less, Exercise More"

Write down your goals & visualize success!

January 17th is widely known as Resolution Ditch Day - a day where all good intentions go to die, just like the crisper drawer in the fridge. (Guilty!) It's easy to start the year busting out new workouts or happily chopping salads but as the month passes, resolutions fade and old, comfortable habits can creep back in. With general resolutions like "be healthy" or "lose weight", it's easy to become frustrated by slow progress. If those general goals are broken down into specific actions, that sense of accomplishment is achievable every day. Here are a few of my resolutions that make me feel confident and powerful:

FEEL COMFORTABLE SAYING NO
No. That's all you need to say. You don't need to justify your feelings or create excuses. Say "no" to people, to invitations, to that bagel you want "as a little snack". You are not required to do anything. Say no guilt-free. Releasing the feeling of owing something to the universe makes your load so much lighter. Do not take on more stress than necessary.

CREATE A BEDTIME ROUTINE
Or in my case, just go to bed! Sleep is an amazing gift to give yourself. Set a bedtime and stick to it. Your body needs rest to attack your day. Trust me, your immune system will thank you.

BE ACTIVELY GRATEFUL FOR YOURSELF
You know who's always going to be in your corner? You. Never forget that. You are your own most powerful ally. Remember to say thank you for consistently showing up for yourself in ways you couldn't begin to name. You are awesome. Be grateful for you. You are lucky to be you.

ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED
If you need help, ask for it. If you need a friend, reach out for support. It always feels nice to be needed. If you need something to achieve a goal, do not be afraid to ask for it. Direct communication is difficult but rewarding, and as my mom says, "You can't get fed if you don't open your mouth." ☺

FOCUS ON MAKING EACH DAY A WIN
What can you do to win the day? Ask yourself what it means to have a successful day and do that.. consistently. Make excellence a habit. Set realistic goals and win them. For me, a successful day looks like a healthy meal, exercise of any kind, and laughter. Checking any one of those things off my list makes me feel like a winner. You don't have to climb the mountain in a single day, but you can take steps toward the peak. Forward motion towards a goal should not be measured by the size of the move, but by the effort and intent behind the action.


TIP! The best way to keep yourself motivated is to have someone that keeps you accountable, so grab a buddy and ask for honest feedback! Conquering goals in groups is destined to lead to a more successful result. Surround yourself with greatness and rise together.