This is the time of year when many of us have given up on our New Year’s resolutions and are back to our old eating and non-exercise habits. We promise ourselves this will be the year for real change, but again are unable to commit. Why? Well, I’ve thought long and hard about this question. One reason it’s so difficult to stick to new diet and exercise plans is because we are unrealistic. One of the hardest things for me is, when I don’t lose 50 pounds the first two weeks of my new diet, I feel like a failure. In my mind, when I attend my first exercise class in two years, I feel I should be able to complete the workout like the instructor who has been teaching the class daily for the last five years. Unrealistic!!
This year I’ve attacked my goals in a new way. I made no New Year’s resolutions! I’ve made small changes that I know I can stick to. For example, I started by cutting soda out of my diet. After that was no longer difficult, I cut back on my sugar intake. I began doing activities I enjoy like cross country skiing and hiking. Now I attend exercise classes three times a week. Exercise is becoming fun again, and I’ve lost 15 pounds since September. If I could give any advice, it would be don’t jump on a new fad diet or buy expensive exercise equipment. Do the things you enjoy, and make small changes to your diet. Most importantly, be patient with yourself! Small changes over time become lifestyle changes you can commit to. The best part is, I once again feel good about myself. Weight loss has not been immediate and I’m not bikini ready, but I’ve made small changes I can continue to follow without feeling deprived. What are you waiting for? Make one small change starting now!!