As 2010 ends, many of us will reflect on what we did last year — our mistakes and accomplishments alike. It's the time of year to recommit yourself to a more wholesome lifestyle — healthier eating, working out and living with less stress. But before you become your own worst critic, celebrate your victories of the year!
I've always noticed we seem to get so focused on the next task that we overlook our great accomplishments, no matter how small. Give yourself a pat on the back for the things you have accomplished before you go full throttle into 2011. You may need this boost a little later next year. Take a moment, what two things did you accomplish this year? Tweet me your answers at @AFCDenita!
I had a few goals for 2010, but the big ones were to tone up "problem areas," gain more definition in my abs and get published unaffiliated with AFC. I'm proud to say I've discovered what works for me (through lots of discipline and research), what foods I MUST stay away from and what workout routine provides the most change.
It was a journey, but you can do it too! Does one of your accomplishments lead to a new 2011 goal?
Looking Ahead
When setting your goals, you must be realistic and honest with yourself. If you are serious about it, then it will take constant reminders and re-dedication to make it work! Remember, whether it's giving up smoking or becoming more organized, a goal is meant to be a challenge.
- Keep a Food Journal: This is the perfect time to begin. Write down everything, even the bad stuff! I use an Excel sheet and create tabs for each week. Plan your meals ahead. Divide into meals and snacks — seven days. Don't get to the point where you are starving and will make a bee line into the closest fast food spot and grab the biggest burger you can find. At the end of each week, review your journal and strive to make better choices.
- Discover your will power: We are all stronger than we think. Charge yourself with a goal and see how long you can stick to it. YOU CAN DO IT!
- Subscribe to a health magazine: I always get the best motivation and advice from articles in fitness magazines and know you will, too! It's reassuring to know you aren't alone on some issues and you get new ideas. Read away! You should be pumped and ready to workout by the time you finish reading.
- Be confident: This is a struggle, because we all have our insecurities. There's a big possibility things haven't happened for you because one thing is in the way... YOU. Throw yourself out there. Challenge yourself! New haircut? DO IT! Finally bold enough to take the ever-popular spin class? Get out there! Stop over-thinking and go for it!
- Fell off the wagon?: Don't beat yourself up. It happens. Get back in there and don't forget the disappointment you have when you do. Use this as motivation to stay on track.
- Finally, don't forget to implement: You will have to make some changes. For example, my food log is tedious and can be a little annoying if I miss a day, but if you want to make a change, you have to do it! Check me out in the December/January issue of Heart and Soul Magazine! I entered a contest to be the cover model and I was a Top 10 Finalist. Small victory! YES!
Stay focused and full of energy!
Smiles,
Denita
