With each new year comes the start of new year resolutions. Chances are, you’ve been thinking about what you will choose to improve for 2014 and how you plan to do it. For many people, focusing on health and healthier habits is a good place to start.
Three secrets to boost your willpower
Nearly every adult in the United States resolved to change some behavior in 2012, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association. (I’m sure this statistic did not waver much for 2013 either.) However, people consistently reported that a lack of willpower was the top reason they fell short of losing weight, saving more money, exercising, or making whatever other lifestyle change they resolved to achieve.
What’s the secret to willpower? Here are three secrets that may be of help:
Small steps to slim down
If you want to lose weight, don’t make drastic changes all at once – otherwise, you may be more likely to give up on your goals. Aiming for a 1-to-2 pound weekly weight loss is sensible and realistic.
As you get started, tell yourself things like:
Once you’re comfortable with small changes like these, add some more.
Life is worth living, so enjoy it – indulge without overindulging
You don’t have to deprive yourself to keep from packing on pounds, if that is one of your goals. In fact, that could make it harder for you to achieve that goal. Consider these tips:
Whatever your health goals may be for 2014, we want you to stick with them. Here’s to your health in the happiest of new years!
"Living Well with LMH" is a blog series that focuses on wellness topics of interest to you. We want to provide you with helpful, relevant information that keeps you "well and good" as you live your life the way that you want to do it.
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