According to statistics, nearly half of us made New Year’s resolutions and fewer than 10% will actually achieve them. Ouch! Grim odds for anyone who pledged to improve their health in 2016. Yes, those age-old resolutions to get fit, eat better and lose weight are still the most popular. Why? One likely reason is, during the hustle of the holidays, these are the things we push aside while we’re shopping, spending time with family, and traveling. 

I can’t remember the last time I made a New Year’s Resolution. I stopped long ago because it didn’t work, and who needs added pressure? For some people (especially us goal-oriented types), a failed resolution can actually be detrimental to their physical and emotional wellbeing. The good news is, your health doesn’t need to be tied to the calendar. Whether you made a New Year’s Resolution or feel it’s time take on a healthier lifestyle, the best time to start, is right now. 

5 tips for a not-so-new year’s resolution

1. Break it down. It’s best to set small, achievable goals and gradually progress toward key objectives. For example, introduce one new healthy food choice every week (I recommend more green leafy vegetables, we all need to get more of those in) or commit to trying two new healthy recipes every month (check out my blog for inspiration).
2. Remove temptations. It’s all too easy to fall into old habits, especially when you’re stressed, running late, or too tired to cook. Get rid of items in your cupboards, fridge and freezer that don’t support your healthier lifestyle.
3. Share it. Let your friends and family know you are committed to improving your health. It can help you stay on track and might even inspire others to join you. For example, pass along a related book or article you enjoyed, share recipes, or blog about your journey. Organize a cooking night with friends or family and include the kids, it can be a lot of fun learning new ways to create tasty healthy dishes.
4. Think ahead. Change can be difficult – it takes planning to adopt new eating habits. Meal planning is the most important (and often overlooked) determinant of success. It’s easy to cook-up a tasty meal when your cupboard is stocked with certain canned food items and dry goods.
5. Stay positive. Don’t get down on yourself if you occasionally slip up – everyone does! Remember, any step in the right direction is a good one.

I look at every day as an opportunity to start fresh. As kids we called them do-overs or start-overs – why not apply the same thinking to your health? Once you start gaining momentum, it gets easier…and feels great. If you need help getting on track, talk to a holistic nutritionist about your goals and specific steps to help you achieve them. 

Join me at The Wellness Show at the Vancouver Convention Centre. I will be talking more about this topic as part of the Women & Wellness Seminar Series on February 13 2016 at 2:15 pm. Would love to meet my readers in person and have you in my audience.

Article written for Fresh Vancouver Magazine Issue 33 Jan/Feb 2016