Before setting New Year’s resolutions, goals or whatever else you like to call the changes we often focus on with the dawning of a brand new year, I always like to first reflect on the past year.
When it comes to fitness, you might want to take a look at how you have done in the past year. Did you lose weight? Did you start exercising more? Do you find that you are healthier?
What accomplishments have you made? For me it has been developing a more active lifestyle. Now one of my goals for the New Year will be consistency but at least I can look back on this past year and say that it was much more active than prior years.
By focusing on your accomplishments before deciding upon changes, you give yourself the opportunity for a pat on the back. No one else might do it but you can. You deserve to recognize those positive changes you have made. Is there room for improvement? Always…but it doesn’t mean you can’t at least acknowledge what you have accomplished.
What goals did you make in the beginning of 2011 that you didn’t complete this past year? Is it the same goal every year that you don’t meet? Perhaps in reflecting on what you didn’t accomplish this past year, you will discover a need to adjust your goals.
Reflection allows you to look at what has worked and what hasn’t. For instance, I discovered that Bollywood-style dance didn’t work for me. But I also discovered that cardio is more enjoyable than I thought it would be.
By reflecting on eating habits, I have learned that I can enjoy healthier foods. But I also learned that drastic changes won’t work for me.
Spend time reflecting on how fitness has impacted you in the past year. This will help lay a foundation as you prepare to make changes for the upcoming year. It all works together. There is no future without the past.
Related Articles:
5 Ways to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain
Start Now to Make Changes for the New Year
Be Flexible during the Busy Holiday Season
Incorporating Exercise into Your Holiday Shopping
Photo by jordanfischer in Flickr