04 Jan New Year, New You!

New Year, New You

A new year. A fresh start. A clean slate. There is nothing like the feeling of waking up on January 1. Everything seems hopeful, almost like your getting a second chance and then bang – last nights hangover kicks in. Then the resolutions go out the window because you will not be able to function unless you eat some yummy hangover food and down that large latte. Its ok you tell yourself, the diet and exercise can start on January 2, but alas it rarely does. Suddenly December rolls around again and your still at square one. In fact, research shows that out of 52% of resolution makers, only 12% achieve their goals. What is the secret? Well they took the meaningful steps to achieve their resolutions setting step by step goals or telling friends and family.

So if you really want to achieve your goals in 2013 it is critical that you set your goals with sincerity and set yourself up for success.

Here are 6 practical steps for making realistic and attainable resolutions – and actually sticking to them!

1. Get specific – a common mistake people make it setting themselves unspecific goals such as I am going to be healthier this year. What does healthy mean? Be more specific such as I will be able to run 5km/lose 5kg because I will work out 3 times a week and eat more veggies and salad and less chocolate

2. Write it down – Make sure you write down your goals whether it be on your fridge, cork board or in your diary. You will also want to break them down into smaller chunks. If it is a massive process it can become so overwhelming you give up before you begin!

3. Make time – Be sure to set aside time for your goals. For example if you want to exercise more, block out 3 mornings a week in your diary for Pure Fitness Boot camps.

4. Move past doubt – Anything new or challenging will be accompanied by fear, doubt and the mantra I am not good enough. Here these thoughts but them let them go and repeat some positive thoughts in place

5. Get a partner – having a partner, friend or professional to encourage you can be a great way to keep you going. You could also seek professional help, whether it is a personal trainer or a councillor to help you tackle ongoing issues of self doubt or a lack of direction

6. Be still – your more likely to slip up on your goals if your stressed or overwhelmed. So spend some time every day breathing, meditating or doing some yoga

Remember, setting and reaching goals isn’t about willpower – its about the power of your intention. Once you have mastered these few steps, you will be well equipped to follow them through on your resolutions this time for good.