Reflect on These Things Before Setting Your New Year’s Resolutions

Have you already made your health and fitness goals for 2013? Maybe you’re thinking about them. Wherever you are in the process, take some time to reflect on what worked and what didn’t work for you this year. Take a look at the reflective questions below and answer them using a journal. Don’t rush this process – take time to answer them. The more honest you are, you may uncover areas of improvement and find some wins as well. Ready? Remember – be honest!

Reflection 1. Did you set realistic goals in 2012?

If you’re puzzled trying to figure out why you didn’t achieve your goals, maybe they weren’t realistic to begin with. The key with goal-setting is that your goals have to be really SMART; specific, measured, achievable, realistic, and time-specific. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds and want to lose 20 pounds your goal would read like this:

“I will lose 20 pounds by April 30. I will track my progress every two weeks based on how my clothes fit and by weighing myself on the same scale in the morning. I will get my measurements and body fat checked every six weeks to make sure I ‘m headed in the right direction.”

Reflection 2. Were you consistent?

This reflection goes with the one above. Unless you consistently eat well, exercise, and manage stress, your results can be greatly affected. As the New Year approaches, it’s easy to focus on the wrong thing – fast weight loss and unsustainable practices like 1,100 calories days and minimal sleep. Instead of the quick-fix mindset, make it your mission in 2013 to be consistent.

Consistency will set you apart from all the rest of the New Year’s pack (especially after February!), and you’ll build an incredible fitness level as you age.

Reflection 3. Did you undermine your efforts?

But I was good, you say. Really? How about that white chocolate mocha after your workout? Baking is a great alternative to store-bought goodies, but how much did you dip into the cookie batter to test…

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