Happy New Year! A new year offers so many possibilities for us, and it can serve as a fresh start for many people to make some changes in their lives.

If you try to make New Year’s resolutions every year, you know how hard they can be to stick to. Since many resolutions involve making changes to live healthier, it can be difficult to stick to them when your lifestyle changes drastically.

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team explains some easy ways to set realistic and achievable goals, so read on to get inspired for the start of 2024.

Why Do So Many People Give Up New Year’s Resolutions?

The beginning of a new year can be a serious motivator for you. A whole year’s worth of days is ahead of you. While you might start off strong, you may also realize that your goals won’t be able to be accomplished as quickly as you thought or a setback sends you reeling.

Many people want change to happen instantly and can become really discouraged if that doesn’t happen. For example, if you are hoping to lose weight, you have to understand that it will take a while to see change and to see progress being made. Because of this, you should look to make small goals within your larger goal, like exercising every day or losing a few pounds every month.

Common Resolutions Every Year

• Quitting smoking
• Losing weight/exercising more
• Eating healthier
• Drinking less alcohol
• Reading more/finding new hobbies

Is There a Way to Reach My Goals Quicker?

Unfortunately, the goals that are worth achieving are often the ones that take the most time and dedication. We suggest trying to rework your mindset when it comes to achieving goals. Instead of giving up excess sugar completely, try to replace one sugary snack with a piece of fruit, or instead of saying that you will never eat fast food in 2024, vow to make meals at home at least four nights a week.

Over time, these small changes will have a significant impact on your health and you have created healthy habits that are much more realistic to stick to. Just remember that with every lifestyle change there are bound to be setbacks or failures. Remember that it happens to everyone, but you just need to give yourself grace and try again.

Be SMART About Goals

• Specific: Define your goal with detail.
• Measurable: Be sure you have a way to track your progress.
• Attainable: Don’t set a goal that will be really hard to reach.
• Relevant: Make sure your goal applies to your current lifestyle.
  
• Time-bound: Set a timeline for yourself so you can stay on track.

We want you to live the healthiest life possible! AFC Urgent Care Louisville is here to care for you.