Monday, January 10, 2011

Do-Over! New Year's Resolutions: Take 2



Welcome to the second Monday in January! Have you "blown" your New Year's resolutions already? If so, you are not alone, and better yet: take a "Do-Over"! Why not let January 10th be another January 1st?

Quite honestly, I'd rather you start over EVERY Monday than simply chunk your resolutions. However, this time, really focus on something SIMPLE and CONCRETE that you can definitely attain. If you have been inactive, for example, don't commit to heading to the gym 5 days per week! Instead, if you have joined a gym, commit to going "on Wednesday mornings, with your buddy, who joined with you." Mind you, I'm not saying to AVOID the gym the other days, but make sure your resolution is something that is possible to keep, so you can feed on your success.

If weight loss is your goal, make sure that you have set realistic goals. It takes a negative 500 calories per day (either eating less or burning off more) to lose ONE POUND PER WEEK. And that is excellent weight loss! I can't tell you how many of my patients feel dejected if they "only" lose 2 or 3 pounds in a month, despite the fact that medically, this is terrific weight loss. Shows like "The Biggest Loser" are motivational, but realize that those participants are more than 100 pounds overweight to begin with, and have chefs and trainers round the clock. If you are only 20 or 30 pounds overweight, plan to lose that in ONE YEAR.

BOTTOM LINE: Keep prioritizing healthy food choices (MORE Fruits and Veggies) and MORE exercise, and 2011 will be a year of success and good health!

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