It’s January, the time of year when people start asking you, “So, what are your resolutions for 2019?”. Ugggg!

You know the statistics; By the 2nd week in January most resolutions have been broken, by February the gym is quiet again and by March most people can’t even remember what their resolutions were.

January can be a great time to reflect on what’s important to you, and where you would like to make some changes. It should be a positive experience with enthusiasm for the outcome.

Goal setting is about aiming for success, not setting yourself up for failure.

Weather it is to learn a new activity, travel more, volunteer, lose some body fat, gain some muscle mass, add yoga to your routine, breath more, eat more whole foods, add more leafy greens to your day, decrease your sugar intake, drink one less coffee a day, be mindful when eating, cut down on alcohol consumption, discover better stress coping mechanisms or smile more often, all goals should be based on the S.M.A.R.T. principle

Specific – Be specific, goals should be clear and distinct. Write them down.

Measurable – How will you know when you have been successful? What is the criteria?

Attainable /achievable – Set yourself up for success. Be realistic with what you can achieve.

Realistic and relevant to you and your life. Are you able to commit to the goal?

Timely or time based – Each goal should have a completion date or timeline.

Remember SMALL changes can make HUGE differences.

Give the goal(s) some thought. Is it really important to you? How will it make a difference in your life?  Write it down and then edit it.

Plan:

• If you are eliminating something from your diet or lifestyle, what healthier choice could you replace it with?
• If you are starting something new where do you see it fitting into your schedule?
• Should you hire a professional in that field to support and guide you?
• When do you expect to feel/see the benefits?
• Can you afford it? Can you afford not to do it?

Making S.M.A.R.T. goals adds motivation, gives you direction, organization and a timeline.

Set yourself up for success in 2019!!

Happy planning and remember the Curtis Health Team is here to assist you. Be accountable to a Curtis Health Team member and we will cheer you on!