It's the season for New Years resolutions, and while setting goals is a great way to initiate positive change, your approach to goal-setting often determines the success of achieving those goals. I've seen firsthand the power of setting SMART goals and shifting our mindset from restriction to addition when it comes to changing our eating habits and lifestyle.
What do I mean by SMART goals?
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Achievable
R - Relevant
T - Time-bound
Applying this to your New Years resolutions can really make all the difference in achieving your goals!
Now that you know what SMART stands for, let me break it down for you:
Specific:
Start by being specific about what you want to accomplish. Instead of a vague goals like "eat healthier," try be more specific like "add an extra portion of veggies to every meal" or "drink an extra glass of water daily."
Measurable:
Make sure your goals are measurable. This will help you track your progress. For example, aiming to "go to bed 30 minutes earlier" allows you to measure and monitor your success compared to "get more sleep".
Achievable:
You want to ensure that your goals are realistic and achievable. Setting unattainable goals can be frustrating and demotivating. Start with small, manageable changes that you can build upon gradually. For example, if you currently drink 500ml of water each day, it would be silly to make your goal 2.5L. Rather start by setting a goal of 1L each day and then you can slowly build on it.
Relevant:
Your goals should be relevant. Focus on changes that matter to you and contribute to your well-being. Adding positive habits like a short daily walk or incorporating nutritious foods into your meals can be more impactful than restrictive dieting.
Time-bound:
Set a timeframe for your goals. This creates a sense of urgency and helps you stay accountable. For example, commit to "adding one new healthy recipe to your weekly meal plan by the end of each month."
I really want to encourage you to shift away from a restrictive mindset often associated with New Year's resolutions. Instead of thinking about what you can eliminate or restrict from your diet, consider what you can ADD. For example, instead of focusing on cutting out certain foods, think about including healthier options. Add an extra serving of colourful veggies to your plate, include a variety of fruits in your snacks, add a short walk to your lunch break to increase your daily steps, or prioritise better sleep by going to bed 30 minutes earlier.
Remember, change takes time and doesn't happen overnight! Be patient with yourself and celebrate small wins along the way. By focusing on addition rather than restriction can make your goals more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run. Here's to a year filled with positive changes and a healthier, happier you!
Do you need help incorporating healthier habits into your daily routine? Book a FREE consultation with me and let me help you!
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