2024 is almost upon us. It’s that time of the year, whether you make plans, goals, or resolutions. We like to call them SMART resolutions. Here are some suggestions for the new year.
First, choose one resolution as a family. It could be less screen time, having a family game night, or reading books together. It could be planning a few travel destinations (staycations or vacations). Making resolutions will make you more likely to stick to it because you have a support system.
For personal resolutions, be sure it’s something reasonable that you can easily stick too. For example, if you want to be healthier, set a goal to eat three servings of vegetables and lower your intake of sugar. Set a goal to work out or go for walks two times a week. Start small, because doing too much too fast is never good for you. Go easy on yourself and count taking walks and playing outside with your kids…because let’s face it, life happens and we get off track!
Instead of telling yourself “no” and cutting out sugary drinks or junk food, say “yes” to healthier choices that leave less room in your diet for the bad things you want to avoid. Then, when you “cheat” and have dessert, you won’t feel as guilty since you ate all of your fruits and veggies for the day.
When making goals, its helpful to make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timebound (SMART). We’ll add one thing to this, make it positive, not negative. There is something about the way you tell yourself so say YES not NO.
