2022 is going to be great! The last few years have made me feel a little out of sorts. It can feel like we have little control over our lives and uncertainty about the future is daunting. However, while we have no control over public health, one thing we do have control over is our own bodies and our own health. If you have a goal for weight loss this year, let’s increase your chances of success by setting up some SMART goals.
Setting specific short-term goals throughout your weight-loss journey will keep you motivated and increase your confidence along the way.
Use these ideas as a guide and adjust them to fit your life:
- I will walk during my lunch break for at least 15 minutes three days this week to break up my workday and boost my energy. (Invite a coworker so you have a buddy to hold you accountable.)
- I will see how many days I can go without cookies, candy, and desserts. Then repeat.
- I will limit eating from a restaurant to once per week for the next 2 months. (including fast-food!). This takes a little planning because you’ll have to prepare meals ahead of time, but think of the money you’ll save!
- I will bring my lunch to work for at least 4 days per week for the next two months. Again, this is a great way to save some cash and decrease calorie and sodium consumption.
- I will add a 30-minute morning exercise routine to my schedule 5 days per week for the next month to burn calories, boost my metabolism, and increase my energy level.
- I will go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and create a healthy routine and boost my energy throughout the day. (Try going to bed without your electronic device too!)
- I will choose water over soda with every meal and I will limit my soda consumption to 1-2 drinks per day. I will also not drink caffeinated soda after 6pm so I can get to sleep more easily at night.
- I will incorporate 10 minutes of meditation to my nightly routine to reduce my stress and keep me focused on meeting my goals.
- I will start wearing a pedometer and get 10,000 steps every day for two weeks.
You know what number you ultimately want to see on the scale, and it can seem far away. Don’t let that discourage you into giving up! Take control and implement short-term goals on your path to weight loss to increase your chances of success and, really, improve your quality of life overall! And don’t forget to reach out to us if you need help with ideas or motivation. Our nutrition counselors are here for you every step (or 10,000 steps) of the way!
