Start Date

I bet you’ve already decided on your resolution for next year.  Lose weight?  Eat healthier?  Quit smoking?  Save money?  Maybe all of the above?

So what’s your plan for the next week?  Party, indulge, eat and drink like it’s your last meal and lay around while you still can? 

We love to have a “start date”.  That day when we start something new, re-start doing what we should, or get back on the wagon.  A start date somewhere in the future gives us hope.  We look toward it with anticipation of the changes it brings, and just know that when the day comes we will face it with all the motivation and determination of Secretariat at Belmont.

Planning for start dates are fun but rarely successful.  According to research conducted by author Stephen Shapiro, only 8% of people are always successful in keeping their resolutions.  

How many times have you started your new diet, bought a new running suit, or thrown that last pack of Marlboro Lights in the trash.   

The problem I’ve had with start dates is the simple fact that the longer I wait to “start (insert resolution here)” the less I really want to do (that thing).  

I’ve found that the minute I realize I need to do something, whether it’s sending a note to a sick friend, calling my mother, or checking on my suspiciously quiet children, the time to act is NOW.  As soon as I let the moment pass, my friend is better, my mom’s out to lunch, and my children have torn apart the couch (really!).  

The same holds true with life goals and aspirations.  

Statistically, people who set resolutions are more likely to make positive changes in their life in general.  My advice to you is this..... don’t wait for January 1.  If you want to lose weight, if you want to invest more time in exercise, start eating well, quit smoking, you name it- if you are ready to make a big change in your life, start today.

Big changes require small steps, taken consistently.  This week, as you prepare to celebrate, think of just one small step you can take to follow your dreams.  

If improving your health through good nutrition and exercise are part of those goals you can find some inspiration in my list of Top 5 Survival Tips for the Holidays.

This day, make a list of 5 things you can do this week to reach your goals.  Make every day your start day, an you’ll have no trouble meeting your resolutions!

Eat Well     www.sickofspaghetti.com   Spend Less