GREENSBORO, N.C. — The New Year is here and it's a time when everyone is thinking of new goals to reach.
When it comes to achieving those goals, it's important to set realistic expectations.
Christy Weaver, Health and Fitness Manager with Cone Health Sagewell Health and Fitness has advice on how you can reach your goals in 2024.
She says it's harder to start something new versus stop.
Setting a goal
Each person handles situations and goals differently but when it comes to exercise. Most people feel overwhelmed with the amount of equipment in a fitness center, they may feel insecure about the way they look, or they may not be sure how to start an exercise program.
The best thing to do, regardless of your goal, is to have some positive thoughts because typically have self-doubt in the very beginning.
For example, instead of saying, "I want to lose 20 pounds" change that by saying, "I want to become healthier."
It is almost important to have a plan as this will set you up for success and make sure your goals are realistic and obtainable.
Ask yourself three questions: Is this realistic? Is this obtainable? How am I going to reach this goal?
Consistency
Many people have working out as a part of their New Year's resolutions, but slowly, that dies down by March. The reason is because they start too quickly and too soon. It is encouraged that people take baby steps.
One small goal at a time will allow yourself time and space to grow, but make sure you're being patient with yourself.
It takes four weeks to notice and feel different, it takes a little bit longer to create a habit and it takes about eight weeks for anyone else to notice the change.
Take a look at your goals. Have you accomplished any? Are they too broad? Do you need to make it smaller so that you can reach those goals? Do you need a little help with them?
Figure out what is and isn't working in your routine, but don't give up.
Look at how far you've come. Now, what can you do to adjust to make your goals a reality?
Motivation
Saying your goal out loud and or journaling them, makes it easier for us to achieve the goal. Then, reward yourself.
The first step is always the hardest, so joining a fitness center and making that first step is an achievement. So, reward yourself.
Sometimes, people need a workout buddy just to get them there, get them motivated, and help them have that accountability. Reaching out for a personal trainer may be needed for that extra push.
Certified professionals are there to motivate, help you set goals, and help you during the process.
Another tactic that may help is setting an alert on your phone. Writing it in your daily planner can help create the habit of working out.
Maintaining your resolution
Choose a word to shape your year - a word that will fulfill what you want to achieve in your life for the better.
Excellence, peace, growth, and determination are all great words to describe your year.
Cone Health has resources to help you achieve your 2024 resolution.
Quick links:
More Cone Health Resources
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