I have never been a fan of “New Year Resolutions” – studies show that 35% of resolutions are broken before the end of January, and only 20% are achieved. So why do only 1 out of 5 people accomplish these annual health-related resolutions? Lack of commitment, unrealistic expectations, and trying to focus on changing too many “bad habits” at once, are the typical derailers. Change is hard and people underestimate the focus that is required for lifestyle changes. It is easy to fall back into habits that are comfortable. So, if you are tired of making the same ol’ resolutions and are ready for lasting change, set a SMART goal for 2023!
Notice how I only said “goal.” Instead of trying to make a handful of changes at once, pick ONE thing to focus on for a few months, and once this has become a habit, then you can tackle the next. Also, use the SMART acronym to be detailed with your goal.
Specific:
Make your goal detailed and clear. Broad goals may be overwhelming and hard to set into action. When is your start date? What are you specifically focusing on? How will you accomplish this?
Measurable:
Make your goal one you can measure. So, how often will you do this? How much will you do? What are you tracking and how will you track it? e.g.: “walking 5x a week for 30 minutes” verses “walking more” makes it a measurable goal.
Action Oriented:
This means your goal requires action by you to be met. What behavior are you changing? Try to focus on changing a physical behavior rather that emotional thoughts or feelings.
Realistic:
Chose a realistic goal that is attainable; a goal you can meet will reinforce your efforts and keep you moving forward. Ask yourself: Can you complete this goal? Try setting smaller goals that will help lead you to tackling a bigger goal.
Time Based:
Set a reasonable timeline to when you can meet your goal; this helps keep you accountable. And is this a lifestyle you are committing to or a temporary goal? Also, find a way to track it, whether it is a journal, calendar, or an app.
Be sure to clearly write down your goal, put it somewhere that you will see daily, and then seek support. Support can be a friend, family member, colleague, and/or a Health Coach. There is a reason why weightwatchers works so well – social support and accountability. When you have someone checking in on you, being your personal cheerleader, and helping you reevaluate your goal if you aren’t making progress – you are much more likely to be successful!
SMART Goal Example:
For the month of January, I will pack a healthy lunch for work at least 3 days per week. I will make sure to pack my lunch the night before so I am successful, and I will go shopping on Sunday evenings, so I have healthy foods to put in my lunch. I will track this on a calendar on my refrigerator so I can see it daily.
III-A Members, needing that extra support and accountability? Here are a few wellness benefits available to you through the III-A:
• Wondr Health: Digital Weight Loss Program – join the waitlist now for the session starting January 30, 2023
• Diabetes Prevention Program: in-person and virtual options, see if you qualify: www.Solera4me.com/bcidaho
• Wellness Wednesday Presentations: Check with your clerk or HR for the monthly Wellness Wednesday presentation or sign-up for III-A emails to get on the list: https://iiia.stagenot.live/e-newsletters/
• Health Coaching: Call or email Megan Smith to get started! 208-860-1979 or [email protected].
Megan Smith, III-A Wellness Manager and Health Coach
