How to Rescue Your New Year’s Resolution

Have you broken your New Year’s resolution yet? If you have, you are not alone. Research shows that a third of people who make resolutions won’t even make it to the end of January and nearly 80 percent of resolutions will ultimately be broken. By February, only 64 percent of people who make resolutions are still able to keep them.  And, to add insult to injury, many of us make and break the same resolution – to live healthier - year in and year out.

So what can be done to make sure you make them and don’t break them this year? According to a new video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OG7UXVCTLAY) featuring Healthy Living Blogger Roni Noone, there are quite a few things you can do to make your resolution easier and more successful. In the video, Roni shares the following five tips to help you avoid breaking your New Year’s Resolution:

Forget “Perfect” – Everyone is looking forward to the New Year. It's a new chance. An opportunity to be perfect. There is only one problem – perfection is hard and, not to mention, nearly impossible. So once we come to the realization that we aren't perfect, our New Year’s resolutions get thrown out the window. To be successful, set realistic and specific goals. Resolve to make small changes. Have one healthy meal a day or always take the stairs.

Get Creative – Getting creative in the kitchen can save you calories and money. When you are trying to make a change, it’s important to fight cravings in unusual ways. For example, if you crave fries, make them with butter squash; if you crave pizza, use a whole grain tortilla instead of dough. Chips and dip more your thing? Slice up some veggies and dip them in hummus. The goal isn't to stop snacking - the goal is to get creative with your snacks. 

Rearrange Your Refrigerator – How many times have you bought fresh groceries only to have them rot in your refrigerator drawers? It’s probably time to rearrange the fridge! Put all the fresh, healthy stuff at eye level. Make it the first thing you see when you open the door. This way you are more apt to grab that apple or bag of carrot sticks when you are hunting for something to snack on.

Be Prepared for Snack Attacks – When cravings strike, be smart and choose snacks that combine portion-control and taste. In the video, Roni uses a Weight Watchers Strawberry Smoothie Bar as an example of this type of snack. Having the right snacks on hand makes it easier to curb cravings and stay on track!

Find Your Tribe – Do your best to surround yourself physically or virtually with people who will support you. Ask your spouse to join you in after-dinner walks. Try to get your family into more activities. Get people you love involved and if they aren't game, attend a few workout classes and introduce yourself. Search for local groups online. Finding your tribe will help you not feel so alone while you make certain lifestyle changes.

Tips