Fit for Life: Happy, Healthy New Year! Let’s do it
Sunday, January 01, 2017
Ok so here it is, the last day of 2016. You tell yourself you will start fresh on Monday. Right? Probably not, and if you do start, how long will it last? Why does this happen if our intentions are there at the time? Why do we even set these goals? Is it the feeling of starting a new year? Is it the stress of the rat race holiday season that makes us want change? Are there a lot of things wrong with your life, that you need to change?
Goals too big?
Whatever the reason we make resolutions, the reason we don't stick to them is that the goals we set are usually too difficult and unrealistic. It sounds great at the time. "I am going to lose 20lbs., or I am going to make more money, beat all my personal records, stop smoking, etc., etc. The problem is that we make these big promises to ourselves with no plan to conquer them.
Are you a (wo)man with a plan?
Every feat we accomplish needs to have a plan. If you fail to plan, then plan to fail. This philosophy, I have learned, is the gold standard to success. In order to accomplish what you set out to do, you need to make a list. A step by step process that gives you a clear path to your finish line. Otherwise you are going to haphazardly attempt these goals, and likely fail. Right?
I, personally, don't think it is wise to place these stresses and un attainable expectations on ourselves. My suggestion to you is to set a few small, realistic attainable goals, and accomplish those before you make new ones. Like instead of losing 20lbs, lose the first five, then alter your plan and lose 5 more. Or instead of quitting smoking, cut your intake in 1/2, then 1/2 next week, until your ultimate goal is reached. Personally, I like to make goals that have the probability to be successful.
Do everything - better.
One resolution that is truly attainable that is easy to set your sights on is "to do everything better". I am always trying to be a better coach and trainer, so my first resolution or goal is to attend a conference soon, and learn more things. I didn’t wait until Jan. 1st to start thinking about my goals either. They have been planned for a few months now, and they look something like this: January - taking a mandatory vacation, then attend a mentorship meeting at the end of the month, then in February - attend a business mastermind meeting – then, March – it’s go to a business summit. These are all building blocks to helping my business explode in 2017.
Building blocks to a better 2017.
All my goals will make me better in several areas of my life, from mental self-improvement to business knowledge. I have planned small steps to execute my “bigger goals”. So instead of restructuring your life (unless it’s a total mess), just try to do everything you are doing now, but try to do it - better. Eat better, sleep better, work better, listen better, etc. I tell people that regardless of your ability, age, weight, sport you play, I can make you better. You will be stronger, move better, eat better, lift better, and become a more effective person, physically. I don't give false hope, or set unrealistic goals - just guarantee improvement.
In conclusion: If you want to be in better health, then you need to call me for a solution. If you want to improve in other areas, make a plan, and break it down into small attainable goals. If you need help and direction, then go get it. You can do whatever you put your mind to, just plan and follow through.
Happy New Year and cheers to a better 2017!!
Matt Espeut, GoLocal's Health & Lifestyle Contributor has been a personal trainer and health & fitnesss consultant for over 25 years. He is the owner of Fitness Profiles, a one on one, and small group personal training company, as well as Providence Fit Body Boot Camp, located at 1284 North Main St., on the Providence/Pawtucket line. You can reach Matt at (401) 453-3200; on Facebook at "Matt Espeut", and on Twitter at @MattEspeut. "We’re all in this life together – let’s make it a healthy one!
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