It’s that time of year again folks. The holidays are over and, as you witness the fridge empty with all those holiday comfort foods, the need to shed off all that unwanted fatigue you felt from eating those foods grows. The new year brings great new year resolutions and I’m here to give you some tips along the way that’ll set you up for success. So, kick that recycling bin that’s overflowing with beer and liquor bottles to the curb, along with your guilt, and develop a plan of action to help you stay on track this new year.

First, come up with a resolution that is measurable and attainable. Don’t just say “I want to lose
weight”. Create a plan that you can measure weekly and have an end date to reach that goal. A better, more specific goal would be “I want to lose two pounds a week for a total of 16 pounds by the end of February”. Setting a goal that is measurable and specific will help you keep track of progress and allows you to learn about what works and what doesn’t work for your body. Remember your body, and the way it reacts, is different; everyone’s body is different. Some people have bad reactions to starchy veggies and others thrive off them. Some people can afford more healthy fats in their every day routine and others end up with weight gain. Learning about your body and what it needs is part of the process. Choosing a goal
that is attainable and realistic is another way to set you up for success from the very beginning. Don’t tell yourself that you are going to lose ten pounds in two weeks. Be realistic and chose your goal wisely.

When that day comes and you wake up to day number one of your journey; little tips and tricks
can help you to stay on track. First, meal prep. Meal prep can prepare you for your day so that you don’t end up stopping for something quick. Meal prep your foods at the beginning of the week and grocery shop when you are not hungry. We’ve all been here. You walk into the grocery store starving, all of those comfort foods are calling your name, you’re looking at snacks like you’re a kid in a candy store and next thing you know, you’re crawling out of the store while balancing 1200 plastic bags and the cashier asks you if your throwing a party for 40 people. Um. No. Party of one please. Second, put your gym shoes next to the door and put them on as soon as you get home. The first step to getting to the gym is putting on the
kicks.

Third, on your way to the gym, listen to music that motivates you to walk into that gym like a boss. We thrive off of our senses. How many times have you had a bad day at work and you left feeling tired and frustrated? How did you feel when you sat in your car and your favorite song came on the radio? Listening is a great sense that you can utilize when you find yourself in one of those moods. Next, find someone that holds you accountable; a friend, a significant other or a trainer.

Last, and most important, always remember that your quality of life comes first. Don’t expect
perfection. You are breaking old habits and trying something new. It can be scary. You’re relearning what your body specifically needs to get you to those goals and your journey will be different than everyone else's. You’ll have road blocks. If you can recognize that those roadblocks are conquerable and know that those times are the most important times to train; you’ll be successful. Eventually, when you realize you have the choice and control to step away from that bad decision, you’ll take a step to your goal. So, in other words, next time life hands you cake batter....make a kale salad.