The New Year has typically always been about two things: reflection and resolution. As that glittering sphere begins its decent in the Big Apple, we reflect upon our accomplishments and challenges and resolve to do something productive, fulfilling, or exciting before the next ball drops. Research has shown that between 40% and 45% of Americans actually set a formal New Year’s Resolution, but sadly, only 18 out of 100 are still on the wagon come Summer.
As you may have already guessed, health-related resolutions such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and drinking less dominate in popularity. Gyms have even coined the term “January Joiner” for those who join up and 6 weeks later are more likely to be found on the couch than on the treadmill. While I am sure those resolution-makers are well-intended, it seems as though there must be a missing component. It takes 21 days to create a habit, so those who don’t make it that far don’t stand a chance, but what about those who press on a little further? Where do they begin to stray?
I am willing to venture a guess that one reason has to do with responsibility, or lack thereof. Picture this. Jessica begins a new fitness routine and nutrition plan and does pretty well for a while, when suddenly she injures her knee at the gym and plummets back to square one. Sound like anyone you know? You see, when we really want to do something, we will find a way, and when we don’t we will always find an excuse.
Jessica could also be part of the 80% of folks who self-sabotage their health as a result of a deeply seeded emotional wound, however until she begins to take responsibility for her life and her results (versus blaming another person, event, or circumstance) she will continually do so. Let me explain. It is estimated that approximately 20% of people who carry extra weight or have generally unhealthy habits have simply gotten a little—dare I say it—Lazy. With some simple behavioral changes and a bit of discipline, those folks will regain their health or ideal body size in a relatively short period of time.
Those who fall in the former category may have a larger vitamin to swallow. Regardless of your past, you have chosen unhealthy behaviors. Despite a mother who called you “fat”, peers who taunted and teased, a parent who used food for comfort or reward, or any other circumstance, that is merely your story. The beauty of life is that you have the ability to choose a new path starting now. It does not need to be any more complicated than that. Find those who can assist you, if need be, and begin. Remember a Marathon can only be run one step at a time.
In the spirit of the New Year, I lovingly challenge you, resolution or not, to find a way to get healthy, remain healthy and in turn, live your best life.
L&G~
Erin
