It’s that time of the year. It’s getting colder, it’s getting darker, and the goals we set last year seem so far away. This may ring more true this year since the pandemic threw a wrench in most people’s plans and somehow it’s almost 2022. WTF 😱

At this point, it’s understandable and convenient to say: “meh, it doesn’t matter, I’ll eat whatever I want and just take it easy, and in the new year, I’ll start eating better and exercising again. Next year I’ll be healthier. I’m going to lose weight! 2022 is MY year!” 

Does this sound like you? 🤔

 

I’ve been there, too. But it doesn’t mean that it’s an effective approach. 

 

The problem with this approach is simple: We rarely keep the resolutions we swear by. We set the same goals and we hardly come close to achieving them. The same old story: We pledge to eat healthier, lose weight, exercise more, work out daily, go on a date at least once a week, meditate more often and so on. 

 

And then 2 weeks later we’re right back where we started: overindulging in food we hastily decided to cut out and eyeing that box of chocolate cookies like it’s going out of style.

 

So what’s the solution? 

 

I suggest you and I skip the resolutions! 

 

Radical idea, I know. I can almost hear your low whisper “hmmm that doesn’t sound quite right, P2…” but hear me out before you make up your mind.

 

Yes, a new date, and a new year is a blank slate and therefore, an excellent time to set intentions and measurable goals, that’s true. 

 

I’m not disagreeing with you there and I actually encourage you to set your intentions & goals for the new year. 

 

But! 

 

B-U-T

 

Not at the expense of your true health in mind and body. Not from a place of shame. Not from the extreme approach that you’re probably already considering. 

 

This new year let’s say NO MORE to: 

• detoxing with a juice cleanse, 
• cutting out all junk food, 
• deciding to go on the keto diet, 
• exercising 6X a week, 
• spending hours on the treadmill, 

 

 

Health and fitness don’t work like that. It’s not black or white, good or bad, and you’re neither on the ‘naughty’ or ‘nice’ list. I mean I’ll speak for myself –  I’m a whole lot of sugar AND spice 😉 har har. 

 

Do you know why most diets and resolutions fail?

• because of unrealistic goals that are unachievable or unattainable due to an extreme or aggressive approach
• because of expectations thrust upon us by a multibillion dollar diet industry that doesn’t leave room for our humanity 
• because of self-sabotage based on our mindset, self-worth, and self-awareness
• or, most commonly,  a lack of established habits, changed behaviours, resources, or social support

 

I want you to succeed, whatever that means to you. I want you to be healthier and happier. So I want you to bring intention to what you’re doing right now.

 

Skip the Resolutions basically means that instead of overindulging this month, then restricting once January rolls around, adopt simple habits that allow you to enjoy the holidays, support your overall health, and help you develop a sustainable long-term relationship with food and fitness. 

 

So before diving head first into the holiday season, consider these questions:

• What am I looking forward to? 
• What am I not looking forward to? 
• What am I expecting of myself, my friends, or family? 
• Am I setting myself up for success? 
• How do I set a goal I can stick to?

 

When you have the answers to these broader questions ready, you can then work backwards from your biggest goal, down to the smallest. 

 

Check out this helpful breakdown (from Precision Nutrition) and use it on your own goals.

There you have it! You don’t have to wait to skip the resolutions. You can start right this moment and focus on behaviours, not outcomes; be flexible but stay accountable; and continue to be consistent and patient. You got this! 

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Related articles:

Eat Like a Pro – 5 Nutrition Tips for Athletes

Understanding Mental Health in Sports 

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As always, I’m here to support you. I’m not a mental health professional, but if you feel called to contact me, please do. I’m happy to listen or connect you with someone who may be a better help.