Guest Blog - How to Reach Your New Year’s Resolutions

How to Reach Your New Year’s Resolutions

By Dave West

It’s that time of the year when people make New Year’s resolutions. Many are health related. People pledge to become more active, get in shape or quit smoking.

Do you know how many people actually achieve their resolutions? According to a University of Scranton survey, only 8 percent ever reach their goals.

As the owner of a Scottsdale health club, I’ve seen my fair share of New Year’s resolution busts. I’ve also seen a lot of success stories. Do you want to know the difference between success and failure? It’s having a plan of action.

If you want to reach your New Year’s health resolutions for 2013, follow these important steps.

· Step #1: Create Realistic Goals: Too often, people try to walk when they should be crawling. Know your body’s limits and speak with experts that can help you develop realistic health and fitness goals.

· Step #2: Have a Plan: You need a plan if you want to get where you want to go. It doesn’t matter if it’s losing 15 lbs. or quitting smoking – you need a plan. Chart out a road map that allows you to accomplish smaller goals along the way. It makes it a lot more manageable.

· Step #3: Measure Your Progress: How do you know if you’re reaching your goal if you don’t regularly measure it? If you’re trying to lose weight, regularly weigh yourself and keep a food journal. Measurements are the key to success because they help hold you accountable.

· Step #4: Don’t Give Up: Most New Year’s resolutions fail because people quit after a minor setback. Don’t let this happen to you. There will be bumps along the way to your goal in 2013. If you have a setback, use it as a learning experience. Build a support network of family and friends to keep you motivated. You don’t have to do it alone.

· Step #5: Reward Yourself: Celebrate small achievements that help you get one step closer to your resolution. It helps to build up your confidence and keeps you motivated.

In the end, it comes down to you. If you really want to make a change in your life, you have to be the one to do it.

Good luck with your resolutions, and I hope you have a great 2013!

About the Author

Dave West is a fitness expert and the owner of several fitness gyms in Scottsdale, Arizona called Koko FitClub. They have Phoenix health club gym locations in three areas in the Valley. Find out more at www.KokoFitAZ.com.