New Year's Resolutions

"I make the most of all that comes and the least of all that goes."– Sara Teasdale

Tomorrow, Secretariat, Debbie, Randall, Diane and I are doing the Resolution Run in Auburn.  After that our intention is to go out to dinner and celebrate.  A Happy New Year to everybody.

 As New Year’s is approaching, how many of you have intentions to make a resolution or resolutions? As you know, by now, making a resolution is the easy part but following through is more difficult. It does not take much effort to make a resolution. Some common intentions have to do with losing weight, going on a diet or working out at the gym etc. Let’s start with the plan such as going on a diet. Some (but not all) danger points include the following: 1.The number of pounds to be lost (is arbitrary along with the time it would take to accomplish it is also arbitrary). 2. The number of previous unsuccessful attempts. 3. The amount of stress in your life.4.  One’s personality type which includes the amount of self discipline, stick to it ness, and compulsive behavior or qualities helps. 5. Proper goal setting which includes a clear definition and an implementation mechanism.6. The motivation of the participant is very important.

We all know that losing and keeping off the weight is very difficult to attain. Let’s begin with setting the goal. The goal must be realistic, clearly defined, easily measured and important. How one thinks about the goal must also be in concert with motivation. Realistically, a good way to begin losing weight is to research nutrition, evaluate cardio programs along with self-knowledge and awareness.

Let’s define our goal as to lose 4 or 6 pounds per month and start with one month only. This means we don’t have to get on the scale daily but maybe one to two times during the month. After every 30 or 31 days (you decide) you can then evaluate and measure the amount of pounds lost. If you have been successful you’re likely on the right track and can determine whether or not to proceed with your program.

To be continued.