Well, it’s that time again, New Year’s Resolution time. It’s a fun, exciting time for those of us in the fitness industry. I LOVE the buzz at the gym and seeing all the new faces. The treadmills are full. The weight room is packed. The fitness classes are bursting at the seams. People are so determined and committed. AND the great thing is that this commitment level lasts year round…in my dreams. The truth is that within about three weeks, the gym is back to normal and the New Year’s Resolutioners have fallen off the fitness wagon…except for a few. A few will make it. A few will catch the fitness bug and stick with it. A few will lose weight, get in shape and get healthy. Will you be one of the few?
Honestly, I don’t think the answer to health and fitness success lies in a new workout program or diet plan. Of course, I’m not knocking those things. Everyone needs to find what he or she enjoys and will stick with, BUT most people know they need to eat less and move more. Most people know that cookies, cake, chips and fried foods aren’t good for them and that fruits, veggies, lean protein, nuts and whole grains are. Most know they need to get off the couch and exercise. The answer lies in our mindset.
Will you be a New Year’s Resolution Winner or Loser? After years of seeing the same pattern, I’ve noticed three mindsets that wreck health and fitness New Year’s Resolutions.
1. The Event Mindset
Don’t let your goal be to get in shape for one certain event such as a class reunion, a vacation or a half marathon. Often, once the big event has past, people go back to their old habits. Remember, we are training for an event called LIFE. It’s a day in/day out, month in/month out, year in/year out event.
2. The All or Nothing Mindset
Getting in shape isn’t an all or nothing endeavor. If you miss a workout or eat a fattening meal, put it behind you and keep going. Get back on track with the very next meal or a workout the very next day. Do NOT throw in the towel if you have a bad day or week. On your fitness journey, you will have many ups and downs, but the key is to soldier on and never give up.
3. The Unrealistic Mindset
Be realistic with your goals. Forget your high school weight, your wedding weight or your whatever weight. Set goals that are reachable for you NOW in your current phase of life. Our bodies and our lives change as we age, and we drive ourselves crazy fixating on a number from years ago. Don’t do it! Where are you now? What’s achievable now?
Do you have any of these mindsets? If so, before 2015 begins, change it. Be someone who adopts healthy habits for life not for a singular event. When you hit a bump in the road, pick yourself up and get right back at it. Finally, forget about your past self. Focus on the now. Move towards becoming a healthier, better you NOW. You can do it. You can be a Resolution Winner so get going! See you at the gym!