Expert blog post by Parkville Area Chamber of Commerce member, Shawna Hostetter, of Parkville Nutrition…

The holidays are long gone and we are now well into the New Year. Resolutions and goals are in place – or have they? January is a fantastic time to set up something that is realistic and that will last, not only through the year, but for a lifetime.  Here are some easy steps to start achieving your goals:

DEFINE YOUR “WHY”

What is your “WHY?” What is going to get you up early in the morning or stay up later to meet your goal? Is it your health? Your spouse? Your children? Or maybe an athletic event? Once you define your reason, this will help you stick to it during those difficult times. Write it down, post where you will see it regularly, stare at it, and memorize it.

GET AN ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER

Find a reliable accountability partner, friend, and cheerleader. Who is that person for you? They will encourage you when you are meeting your goals and will question you when you have fallen off track. These people will help remind you of your mission. And your why!

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Find a program that is simple and maintainable. Your resolution should be a lifestyle change. Being healthy and losing weight should not simply be a “diet.” If it is, you will find yourself doing the “yo-yo;” losing and gaining, losing and gaining, over and over again. This can be frustrating and discouraging! Create a plan that creates change, but is manageable and achievable.

BE REALISTIC

This process takes time! How long did it take you to get where you are? 6 months? One year? Five years? It will likely take a while to break habits, to form new ones, and to reverse the effects of your past, or even current, lifestyle. Be patient with your timeline and stay focused on your why. It can and it will happen for you!

Expert blog post by Parkville Area Chamber of Commerce member, Shawna Hostetter, of Parkville Nutrition…