We’re less than a week into the new year, and if you made a resolution, how’s it going so far? Don’t worry if you’ve slipped up — medical experts say setbacks are normal. It’s all about how you bounce back.
Many people start the new year with big expectations for their resolutions, whether for their mind or body. But psychologists like Dr. Andrea Rodgers say it’s smart to keep those expectations realistic.
“When we make those big goals — I’m going to exercise every day, I’m going to give up sugar forever — that’s hard,” Rodgers said.
Change doesn’t happen overnight.
If you want to make real progress, there are a few simple steps you can follow.
Rodgers encourages people not to go it alone. “Have an accountability partner, add it to something you’re already doing so it doesn’t throw your entire routine off,” she said.
If your goal is to hit the gym and shed some weight, don’t let indulging in a sweet treat set you back.
“Start back fresh tomorrow. Tomorrow is a new day and start back fresh the next day. You don’t have to wait till next week. You don’t have to beat yourself up. Start in the next 24 hours,” Rodgers said.
Right now, because it’s still early in the year, motivation is high. But that doesn’t mean motivation will stay high through all 12 months.
“Discipline is a muscle that you have to build over time, so when motivation fades, build your discipline muscle over time,” Rodgers said.