Be Part of the 9%

As we approach New Year’s Eve, many of us are considering our goals, those annoying yet invigorating New Year’s Resolutions. There are countless articles on the failures of these well intentioned goals. Some cite as much as 91% failure by the end of the year (1)! How can we do better to achieve our maintenance goals?

Let’s start off with this Mayo Clinic Minute video to get on track quickly.

Here is a list of suggestions from Mayo, as well as a few others I’ve found:

• Schedule time to work on your goal, making it a priority in your life.
• Plan ahead for healthy eating, being sure you’ve stocked up on nutritious foods.
• Set specific goals that are challenging (1), though not overwhelming – a Goldilocks goal (2).
• Make your goal something that truly motivates you, so that you have the drive to achieve it (1).
• Find your support, so that you don’t give into temptation when you find yourself at a low point (1).
• Consider small goals, which can be used as stepping stones to reach your main goal (1).
• Use a visual or aural reminder of your goal – for example, last year I used a Daruma doll who glared menacingly at me every time I opened my refrigerator!

Remember to create SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely (3). I’ve decided to lose another 10-15 pounds this year as my goal. How about you?

How can we resolve to be part of the successful 9% in 2023?

(1). https://www.inc.com/marcel-schwantes/studies-show-91-percent-of-us-wont-achieve-our-new-years-resolutions-how-to-be-9-percent-that-do.html

(2). https://www.99walks.fit/blog/2020/7/26/how-to-set-a-goldilocks-goal

(3). https://www.claritychi.com/setting-smart-goals-new-years-resolutions/amp/