By Dr. Erik Johnson
Love & Health Chiropractic
Happy New Year! Did you make any New Year resolutions this year? Many of us did. And most of us have failed to keep them in years past. In one study, 77% of people kept their resolutions for 1 week but by the end of two years, only 19% were still going strong— and 53% reported slipping up at least once. Yes, it can be difficult to stick to your resolutions.
To keep yourself really focused on your goals, take time to quietly imagine how you will feel when you achieve them – and hold on to that feeling. If you Google, “keeping New Year’s resolutions,” you’ll find lots of good advice. For example, CNN Health shared these five tips for keeping your resolutions, based on the book, How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be.
- Make a cue-based plan. For example, instead of generalizing that you will exercise, plan a time each day when you will exercise and have your electronic calendar remind you to do it. Or, if you want to eat healthier, plan a weekly menu and make a shopping list to support it.
- Give yourself a fine. Make a deal with yourself, a friend, or a charity, that every time you slip up, you will pay them a designated amount of cash. Psychologically speaking, it seems penalties can be pretty motivating.
- Make it fun. Watch your favorite TV show only when you work out. Treat yourself to your favorite coffee drink when you buckle down and learn that new subject or listen to your favorite tunes organize the house.
- Give yourself a few “Get out of Jail Free” passes. If you miss a day at the gym or gorge on chocolate cake one night, give yourself a pass and get back on the wagon.
- Find an encouraging friend. Including a friend on your journey keeps you more accountable. Also, they might have some wisdom for you as you seek to achieve your goals, and vice versa.
Whatever your 2022 New Year resolutions are, another good way to achieve them is to choose health in every choice you make. Even if your resolutions have nothing to do with physical health, being active, eating healthy, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep all support you in every other area of your life. So does keeping your spine healthy. Regular chiropractic adjustments not only relieve pain that can discourage you from meeting your goals but keeps your whole body humming in tune.
Dr. Erik Johnson DC is a chiropractor at Love and Health Chiropractic in Wyoming at 1586 44th Street SW.
