As we embark on the dawn of a new year, our attention turns to new resolutions for the year and the goals we want to achieve in the next 12 months.
Did you know that 95% of New Year resolutions are fitness related? However, over 50% say these resolutions only last past January.
'Health and fitness' does not need to be a temporary measure, but perhaps more so a habit; a creation of an identity that encompasses daily routines that supports our overall health.
However, we need to understand our true ‘why’ to find that; not just surface-level body-image goals, but a goal with real meaning that aligns with your deepest values.
Why do you want to improve your health?
Why should it be a priority?
How will life look if you do (or don’t ) make this change?
Once you have established this, you are in a much better position to follow your goals. Today, I want to delve further into some potential areas that might be derailing your health goals in 2022:
(1 ) Accountability - committing to a friend or partner that you will do something, has excellent power. Your likelihood of following through increases when you make it public. Go a step further and work with a coach who will help you set milestones to review, for added layers of accountability throughout.
(2 ) Setting the bar too high - we can tend to go gung-ho in January and perhaps set our expectations so high that it is hard to follow through consistently. Be realistic with your time and energy and construct a sustainable plan. This will create an environment that allows your adherence to flourish and reduces the likelihood of overwhelming you.
(3 ) Avoid the fads - this month you will be hit with a barrage of quick-fix fads, cleanses, detoxes, lotions and potions promising you instant results. As impatient creatures, we jump to the romance of the lofty promises, only to be ultimately left disappointed when we’re back to square one a few weeks later. Just like when buying a house, where you invest in a secure abode, approach your health as an investment. If looking for help, do your homework, shop around, speak with people and find someone who will 100% support you towards your end goal.
(4 ) Lastly, be patient. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Results take time, effort, consistency and adherence. If you are currently in a position where you want to change, chances are your current situation hasn’t occurred overnight, so why should we assume we will reach our end goal overnight? The good news, even the act of contemplating change, is a step already closer to your end goal. Create a plan, trust the process and adhere to it consistently until you reach your goal.
Micheál Penston is the Head Coach & Nutritionist at FM Fitness and Nutrition based in Westport. They specialise in helping busy men and women create the healthiest versions of themselves by educating and empowering all their lifestyle areas: fitness, nutrition, recovery, and behaviours.
You can grab a free copy of the 5 Stage Health and Fitness Kickstarter or find out more about their online and in-person coaching methods at www.fmfitnessnutrition.com or social media handles @fmfitnessnutrition
