The New You: Tips for Change

So, you've probably made a New Year's Resolution, and right about now, you're probably losing steam... Old habits are cropping up, and without meaning to, we find ourselves seeking comfort in the familiar. Unfortunately, without positive change we are stuck, unable to attain our healthier, fitter lives.

So, how do we stick with our resolutions?

First of all, consider rephrasing your resolution. It's much easier to DO something than it is to NOT DO something. For instance, stop thinking about m&ms. See, not really that easy, right? Now, think about eating your favorite vegetable. Much easier, right? Resolutions are best put in the positive. Instead of, "This year, I'm going to stop eating junk food" try "This year, I'm going to eat three servings of whole fruit and five servings of vegetables every day." Then when you crave junk food, you'll remember that you still have a few servings of fruits and vegetables that you want to eat, and by the time you've had an apple and celery, you probably won't even remember that you ever wanted a Ho-Ho in the first place!

Second of all, allow yourself some compassion. You wouldn't berate your child if he or she was having a hard time remembering to use the toilet when the urge struck, right? We all know that yelling at children not to pee their pants and calling them names will do more damage than it's worth AND that it will just prolong the problem, so no matter how frustrated we become, we gently encourage them and reward them for positive behavior. So try the same approach with yourself. One slip-up doesn't mean doom, it doesn't mean you're worthless, and it doesn't mean that all your hard word to date has been for naught. It's just a minor setback. Not a big deal, just try again. Psychological studies have shown that "people who are hard on themselves are less resilient after a setback and more vulnerable to anxiety and depression" ("Yoga Journal" Feb.2011, p. 123).

Finally, delight in your progress. Every time you follow through with your resolution, silently praise yourself. (Or do it aloud, if you like!) Then, reward yourself in some small way. Make yourself your favorite cup of coffee or tea, rent a movie you've been dying to see, or allow yourself the pleasure of perusing your favorite magazine. Sometimes all it takes is giving yourself the freedom to enjoy a nice, hot, extra-long shower without guilt.

Follow through with these tips, and you're guaranteed to succeed. Why shouldn't you? After all, you're worth it!