why new year’s resolutions don’t last
Every year most of us have thought about what we want to improve in the upcoming new year by midnight on New Year’s Eve. We are committed and well-intentioned, but after a few days or weeks we revert to our old habits. The harsh reality is that over 90% of New Year’s resolutions will be abandoned after just a few weeks or months.
The new year is often a time for reflection and assessment of our lives. A chance for a new beginning. The new year is a perfect time to start over and align our actions with our intentions for self-improvement, especially after all the indulgences of the holiday season. Some of us may have gained weight we want to lose, or now have more time available to start a new exercise routine, clear away clutter and get our finances in order. It is also a time when we can have the most support in achieving our goals since a lot of other people are also making changes.
Some of the reasons why our resolutions don’t last include thinking too big, not considering the “why” behind them, or the fact that we may not be ready for change yet. (See Stages of Change Blog) There are a lot of psychological factors involved in making changes and setting new goals. Making drastic changes to our eating habits is challenging. Our tastebuds and our gut microbes cause us to crave foods that may not be in alignment with our goals. It’s not our fault, but we can begin to shift things to our advantage if we take small steps consistently. Every time we eat something it is either moving us toward wellness or illness. We are either feeding the good bacteria or the bad bacteria and they are what controls our cravings. The more we choose healthy foods, the less we crave unhealthy ones. That doesn’t mean we have to give up treats forever and there are many healthy treats that still allow improvements in weight loss and health.
Humans are not wired to make huge changes. Sometimes the price of admission to a happier, more meaningful life involves some degree of discomfort. Nobody likes to be uncomfortable, but when we set more attainable smaller goals, it makes it easier to stick it out to see the fruits of our labor. We all have some reason why we are motivated to make a change. When we get to the heart of the reason, we become empowered to work at it. “The pain of not changing has to be greater than the pain of changing for us to really change.” (Source: Terry Bly, Clinical Psychologist)
Real change is possible when we make small incremental changes that become habits. Instead of reverting back to old habits, we can choose to make new habits that become our norm. They can become so automatic that it doesn’t require much thought or effort because they are a part of what we do everyday just like brushing our teeth. Set goals you believe you can achieve because they are doable for you. Make sure it is a SMART goal: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timebound. Find an accountability partner to provide support and encouragement. Look for a qualified Health and Wellness Coach especially trained and qualified in assisting clients in setting and reaching their goals.
I am a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach. I not only help clients lose weight and keep it off, I am also specially trained to help you establish healthier habits that last. If you are ready to make some changes this year, we can get started with a complimentary consultation to identify your goals and desired outcomes. Simply complete the brief questionnaire and we can have a phone call, or video chat and see if you’d like to work with me to help you reach your goals and make those New Year’s Resolutions stick! Make the new year be a year of new habits for a new you!