Many of us look to the new year as a clean slate. I often hear my patients say, “I will… as soon as January is here.” Well, it’s here. What are your plans for the new year ahead? What goals do you really want to keep for 2017?
Common New Year’s resolutions that my patients have include losing weight, quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol consumption, spending more time with family, saving more money, getting better grades, being more kind to others, more organized, less stressed, or all of the above.
Many of these resolutions are linked with an individual’s mood and energy levels, which is, in turn connected with sleep, memory, concentration, motivation and willpower.
You are not alone, as it is estimated that less than 10% of people keep their New Year’s resolutions, and most of us have given up before the end of January. Do not despair; there are many resources and experts to help you achieve your goals in our community.
- Choose goals that are based on what you really want in your life and what would make you the happiest. It is important to believe in yourself and that you can do whatever you put your mind to.
- If losing weight is your mission, aim to begin exercising twice per week, eating more vegetables and drinking more water. Put a photo of yourself on your fridge from a time that you felt you looked your best for motivation. Outline your plan and really put some thought into the details. What do you need to do to make a big change? Tell your friends and family of your goal so that others can also encourage you to fulfill it. Take small steps every day to reach your goal, track your progress and remember to reward yourself.
- Think back to a time in your life where you showed tremendous willpower, and use that for motivation. You do not have to do this alone, as there are many modalities in naturopathic medicine that assist in fat loss, including combating depression, increasing energy, decreasing appetite for sweets and boosting metabolism.
- Set a realistic time frame with which your goal should be accomplished and be patient, as it may take you a few weeks to get used to a new routine. In the end, it is up to you to discipline yourself and be committed. Learn from your mistakes and keep the reason you chose your goal in mind. Remember, no one can ever make you truly happy but yourself. Make your intention to think positively that you will reach your goals. You are a strong person and the end result is worth the hard work.
If you want extra, naturopathic ways, of achieving your new year goals contact me today at www.vitalforcenaturopathic.ca.
