If you’ve been regularly going to the gym, you may notice that it’s a little bit harder to get a turn on one of the cardio machines this week thanks to the new year’s resolutions that people have made in an effort to get into shape this year.
But what is it about the new year that makes people suddenly think that they are serious about making an effort to get in shape? Surveys have shown that very few people actually stick to a plan when it comes to weight loss. Some tend to quit before the end of the month while others will see some results gradually before ultimately dropping off altogether due to the amount of consistent effort required to reach their goals.
While not surprising, it’s the routine of all things that causes people to lose their resolve when trying to follow a plan. For many if not most of us, it’s the anticipation period that excites us as opposed to the actual execution stage where we are trying to make good on our promises.
It’s common for fitness centers to begin their mass marketing efforts during the approaching of the new year. Revenue for fitness memberships tend to spike at this time but sees a fairly large decline shortly after as people bail once the whole stigma of the new year’s resolution has worn off. Then we find ourselves back to square one and once again, promising ourselves that we will make the effort once the summer comes along or, in many cases, to absolutely make the effort in the next new year.
Since the majority of people consider themselves too busy to stick to their new year’s resolution, we should ask ourselves if waiting for the new year is really just an excuse as a way to simply give ourselves the comfort in knowing that one day we will make the change. As experts would say, the uphill battle requires focus, commitment and dedication. Going downhill on the other hand requires no effort at all. Much the same way we are unable to say no to the amazing taste of an Iceland Deluxe Mince Pie along with Cherry Topped delicious Xmas pudding, it’s the inability to make sacrifices that kills us.
Studies have shown that the only way to follow through with a plan without having to promise ourselves that we will change in the new year is to begin making those very same sacrifices starting right now. But the sacrifices do not need to be enormous. The process of taking small steps slowly leading to bigger steps over time has proven to be the best course of action.
Much the same way a novice boxer doesn’t suddenly compete against veterans so soon, the process is long and there is a need to educate ourselves and to strengthen our mind and resolve over time, ultimately giving us the “Yes I can” attitude to help us attain our goals.
Fitness experts claim that even a brisk walk around the neighbourhood is beneficial to our health. Making some effort is far better than making no effort at all. Tiny goals lead to bigger goals as we naturally see results, and the pride we feel about ourselves once we accomplish each small goal leads to increased passion and commitment.
Keeping food journals to analyse our eating habits and caloric intake is an important step to see where we are going wrong. Portion control is another important element in the process of improved eating habits. Once we can gain control of what we eat and how much we eat, things become far easier.
The best time to work towards your goal is now, not new year’s. Start small, study your intake, and take a few walks outdoors and enjoy the beautiful fresh air. You’ll enjoy the gradual path towards change as opposed to seeing it as a burden.
The best time to work towards your goal is now, not new year’s. Start small, study your intake, and take a few walks outdoors and enjoy the beautiful fresh air. You’ll enjoy the gradual path towards change as opposed to seeing it as a burden.
Nick Cooper
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