Spring Cleaning; 5 ways to Renew Your New Year's Resolutions

So here we are, already in April.

Why are we talking about New Year’s Resolutions?

Because spring is the perfect time to renew your fitness goals.

Especially if by now, you find yourself off track a bit.

I know, I know…life happens.

I’ve been there too.

I see the patterns so vividly. At the beginning of the year I’m like a horse ready to dart out the gate, charging towards my goal(s).

By mid-year those same goals suddenly feel unattainable and overwhelming.

Why is that?

Desperate for answers, I’ve done my research on this topic and not surprisingly it’s a pretty common thing.

According to a recent study, 38% of Americans never even make it to their resolutions. Only 8% are successful in achieving their resolution.

I’ve learned over the years that with the right tools though, you can easily get back on track.

First things first – refuse to listen to that voice that says “It’s too late. Why bother?”

Also, know that there is no better day than today to restart your fitness journey.  It is never too late.

Never.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve skipped out on the last few weeks, or several months.

So let’s look at 5 ways to help you reset and stick to your goals:

1. Decide if you want to maintain your current weight or if you want to be ambitious and lose weight (or gain muscle).
2. Plan your week on Sunday.  Look ahead and see what days you have commitments and other outings or get-togethers. Schedule your workouts around them so that they fit into your schedule for the week. You might have to get up a bit earlier to pop in that DVD, but by scheduling your workouts into your calendar you’ll be more likely to stick to them. Sunday is also a good day to prep your meals for the week too.
3. Skip on-the-go meals. Try to cook at home as much as possible.  With kids spring sports in full effect, you may be spending a lot of your time out and about more often this month.   The only way you can make sure you’re eating healthy is by cooking the meals yourself.  Think easy, fresh, light, proteins and veggies. Crockpots are great for busy week nights. Plus, you’ll end up saving money by cooking at home too.
4. Keep snacks handy – It’s easy to go for long periods without eating or drinking water, especially when we’re busy. Keep shake mixes, protein bars or other healthy snacks in your car and in your purse.  This way you avoid pulling in the drive-thru because you feel ravenous.
5. Skip the latest and greatest coffee drinks – Yes, they sure are tasty, but drinking just one of them could cost you over 500 calories!  Same goes for alcoholic beverages. Pay attention to what’s in them and how many you drink. Enjoy drinks with nonfat milk and low or no sugar flavoring.

Most of all, have fun and enjoy the sun. Spend time outdoors.

By planning to take care of yourself and recommit to your goals this month, you eliminate the struggle in the upcoming months.

~Alesha

P.S. I am currently looking for those who would like to start their fitness journey! Click here to apply to join my next accountability group to reaching your fitness goals! http://bit.ly/1TrjBqW