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I’m a Dietitian & This Is Why I’m Opting Out Of New Year’s Resolutions This Year
One of the biggest misconceptions people have about New Year’s resolutions, or goals in general, is that they need to do everything they’re hoping to accomplish right from the start. More often than not, the initial enthusiasm starts to fade, and the resolutions may drop off, leaving them back where they started. But to really make a behavior change, you need to be able to sustain a new habit indefinitely. While this sounds intimidating, it’s much easier and more reasonable if you start small and focus on achieving your goals in an enjoyable way. Simply put, you’re way more likely to stick with something you look forward to than something that always feels like a punishment.
This year, one small habit I’m adopting is towalk outside for at least 15 minutes each morningbefore I start my day. I’ve noticed that even in the recent cold-weather months, a walk outside helps me feel my best. Right away, I always feel a boost of energy, and it improves my mood. I also try toavoid using my phoneto help me add in some mindfulness. And I’ve found that if I start my day with this healthy habit, I’m more likely to choose healthier habits and be more productive as the day goes on. It feels almost like a snowball effect from something as simple as a short stroll outside.
Beyond feeling refreshed at the moment, there are some impressivehealth benefits of walking. It supports a healthier heart, better brain health, healthier blood sugar levels and more. Some research has even found that walking for just11 minutes per daymay add years to your life! That sounds like something worth making time for, if you ask me, especially when it also makes me feel my best, especially as I’m doing it.
While this is all great, I’ll admit that it’s not all sunshine and roses. I live in Vermont, a place where it’s very, very cold for a good portion of the year. And right now is the start of the coldest season of all. To help me stick with my goal, I always dress warmly for my walks with lots of layers—typically more layers than I actually need—so I can easily adjust as I warm up. I also prioritize wearing supportive shoes with lots of traction and choosing a route with plowed sidewalks. All this is to say, have a plan for when it may get challenging to stick with your goal. Anticipate things that could be barriers before they come up so you can adjust your approach.
Rather than letting the new year be a source of stress, what if we all focused on doing things that make us feel our best? To me, moving my body regularly makes me feel my best—especially when it’s outdoors. Eating flavorful and nourishing meals that satisfy me makes me feel my best. Getting enough sleep andpracticing gratitudeare other habits I’ve found helpful. Instead of choosing a goal or resolution that feels like a punishment, choose something that makes you feel good and that you actually enjoy. Whether it’s a short outdoor walk each day or something else, focus on small and easy changes you think you can stick to in the long run. You may be surprised at where you are a year from now.
Up Next:5 Health Resolutions Dietitians Won’t Make—Plus, 7 They Will
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