According to brainstatistics.com, 21.4 percent of new year’s resolutions have to do with living a healthier lifestyle and losing excess weight. Although many fail to follow through with their resolutions, it is possible for those resolutions to become a reality. A resolution, by definition of the dictionary, is, “a firm decision to do or not do something.” In regards to a change in lifestyle, resolutions can be defined as a changing of habits. Contrary to the popular belief that it takes only 21 days to form a habit, research from the University of London has shown that it actually takes around 66 days to form a habit. 66 days can sound intimidating, but that is a short amount of time to make a lifelong change. Although fad diets can make temporary dramatic changes, the key to a lifelong change is the adopting of habits that will continue after the weight is lost. Here are 4 ways to make those lifestyle resolutions a lifelong reality:
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1. Chose an accountability partner that is where you want to be
Accountability is important in achieving goals. It is natural for people to want an accountability partner that is at the same starting point, but there can be some draw backs to this. Although the ability to relate to someone is comforting, it can be easier to fall into temptation together. That is why it is important to have a person who is already at your fitness goal to keep you accountable. They can push you and give you something to strive for.
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2. Set a schedule
Setting a work out schedule is vital in making lifelong habits. When making your schedule, allot a specific amount of time to just working out. Working out sporadically is the easiest way to fail at making it a habit.
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3. Plan out your meals/Do your own grocery shopping
What you put in your body will drastically affect every area of your life. It all starts with planning meals for the week. Planning out meals will not only help you health wise, but will also help you from overspending at the grocery store. Keep temptation out of your pantry! This is so important, when making lifestyle changes. Buy alternatives to what you know you crave throughout the week. Instead of chips, buy nuts. If you crave sweets, buy fruits. There are healthy alternatives for almost every craving out there. You mights just find yourself becoming a great cook in the process.
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4. Invest your money
What people invest their money in tends to be what they really care about. When most people go to college, they seldom miss their classes, because they know how much money is being investing in their education. On a smaller scale, the same can be applied to getting into shape. People tend to stick to commitments when money is involved. Invest your money into some new work out clothes! Places like Target and Fabletics have work out clothes that look great, and won’t burn a hole in your wallet. Another way to invest in working out is getting a gym membership. You can also get the gym experience at home with work out videos like P90x, if gyms aren’t for you.
These tips are here to help you get where you want to go. It can be intimidating, but it is all about taking it one day at a time. Get that accountability partner, set that schedule, go grocery shopping and invest that money. You are on your way to healthier and happier days.
