How to Keep Your New Year's Resolution

So, here we are. About to embark on another new year. Another chance to set goals and be different this year. Make things better. Be a better person. Be a happier person. Be a healthier person. Right? The new year is an automatic redo/reset button.

So why is it that so many of us fail? Because we're changing for the wrong reasons.

If you know what to do and you're constantly cheating, you're not ready. If you say you're going to exercise and you don't, you're not ready. If you go to the store knowing exactly what healthy ingredients to buy and you come home with bags of cookies and chips, you're not ready.

You have to be mentally ready to make a change. 

Let's say your resolution is to exercise more and lose a few pounds. Don't be fooled by a quick fix with magic pills, or try living on lemon water or raspberries. Those gimmicky diets don't work. I know. You can't believe it. I'm here to tell you to not waste your money. Diet and exercise are the answer. Sorry to break that news to you.

First, you have to tell yourself you're going to do it. Give yourself a realistic goal and a realistic time-frame. If you want to lose weight, an average of 1-2 pounds a week is a realistic goal. But to do this you have to do a few things every single day.

• Stick to a healthy diet. 
• Track calories. 
• Read nutrition labels for content, calories and portion size.
• Exercise regularly. 
• Drink more water. 
• Give up alcohol (the biggest diet buster.)

Once your mind is on board, your stomach and heart will follow.

I know this because just like you I've tried and failed diets dozens of times. Over and over again.

It takes a lot of willpower. A LOT OF WILLPOWER.

You will feel weak at times. Don't give in or give up.

You have to tell yourself it will be worth it.

Every day it will get a little easier. The temptations will not be as hard to pass up. And you want to know why? Because you'll start to see some change. You'll see the number on the scale change. The muscles in your body change. You'll feel more energized. The walk up the hill won't leave you heaving for a breath of air.

And then your clothes will start to feel better.

Your friends, family, and colleagues will start to notice a change in your attitude (and possibly your waistline.)

"How did you do it?" they'll ask.

"Well, remember that delicious basket of garlic bread at dinner the other night? I didn't eat any. And that cocktail? I had a glass of club soda with lemon. And that delicious cake for the birthday celebration? I had some berries instead."

"Oh, I couldn't do that." they'll say.

That's right. Because you're not ready. But I am, and guess what? I am now able to wear jeans without a muffin top!

MUFFINS = MUFFIN TOP

Say no to muffins! lol

Take control of your food at home. Here's an example of how to eat together and eat your way.

What might be served | What I eat

pasta and meatballs  |  zucchini noodles and meatballs

burgers, salad and tater tots  |  burger (no bun) and salad

Tacos, chips, guacamole  |  taco salad

Meatloaf, potatoes, green beans  |  meatloaf and green beans

Grilled chicken, mac and cheese, coleslaw  |  grilled chicken and coleslaw

It's really not that hard once you get going. Are you going to screw up? Of course. We're human. Just don't let one mistake stop you for even a second. Just get back on track immediately. And don't feel guilty about it. Life is too short. Celebrate the wins!

Here are my tips for success:

1. If you need help from a professional get it. It's worth it. I have worked with JumpStart MD to help me. I've also done Weight Watchers. Love both programs.
2. Use an app to track your food, calories, water, your weight, and exercise. I personally like Carb Manager. I've tried others, but don't like them as much.
3. Join a gym and find a friend to workout with. The extra motivation from a friend will ensure you go. Plus it's more fun.
4. Hire a personal trainer, they can help with your workout routine and diet.
5. When you go to restaurants ask them to hold the bread, the croutons, the bun - whatever it is you're trying to avoid. Remove the temptation from your plate!
6. Buy some new workout clothes. They will give you a little more pep in your step. Remember, mind over matter. You feel good, you look good, you'll win the mental battle.
7. Tell yourself you're worth it. Because you are. You deserve it and don't let anyone stop you.

So there go. I know you can do it. Because if you've gotten this far in reading this post you are mentally ready!! Congratulations! You're one step closer to victory.

I would love to hear what your resolutions are. Leave a comment and let me know how it's going!

I'm on a quest to lose 10 pounds this year. I'll keep you posted on how I'm doing too.

Kris