Why I'm Anti-Resolution
Whenever we enter a new year, the air is often filled with the buzz of resolutions. Many commit to eating better or exercising more to achieve hormone, fertility, and fat loss goals. And yet, by February, researchers suggest as many as 80% of people fail to keep their New Year's resolutions.
Why? Resolutions often focus on drastic lifestyle changes, demanding immediate and significant behavior changes. This all-or-nothing mentality can lead to feelings of guilt and failure at the slightest deviation from the plan. Moreover, the sense of restriction, whether in diet, exercise, or other habits, can trigger rebellion or a sense of deprivation, making it challenging to sustain the resolution over the long term. In other words, the psychology behind New Year’s resolutions sets you up for failure.
Setting goals for Hormones + fertility
Just because I’m anti-resolution doesn’t mean I’m anti-goals.
A sustainable goal can be maintained over the long term, promoting consistent progress without leading to burnout. Several key elements contribute to the sustainability of a goal:
Realistic and Attainable: Goals should be realistic and attainable, given your current circumstances. They consider your resources, time constraints, and capabilities, avoiding unrealistic expectations that may lead to frustration.
Flexible: Life is dynamic, and you have to be dynamic with it. Sustainable goals allow for adjustments, recognizing that not every day, week, and month will be the same.
Overall Well-being: Sustainable goals prioritize well-being, considering physical, mental, and emotional health. They avoid strategies that sacrifice one aspect of well-being for another.
Lifestyle: A sustainable goal takes into account your lifestyle and personal preferences. It considers your likes and dislikes, ensuring that the changes align with who you are and what you enjoy.
Making goals Sustainable
Instead of fixating on what you should eliminate or begin abruptly, a more practical approach involves understanding your habits. It's about recognizing the factors contributing to certain behaviors and gradually introducing positive alternatives. This allows for a more sustainable and adaptable journey toward our desired outcomes.
Goal: Eat a more nutrient-rich diet.
Sustainable Change: Focus on adding 2-3 colorful fruits and vegetables at each meal.Goal: Establish an exercise routine.
Sustainable Change: Aim for 20-30 minutes of non-exercise activity time (NEAT) daily and 3-4 functional strength training sessions weekly. Prioritize consistency over perfection.Goal: Set boundaries.
Sustainable Change: Commit to saying, “Let me look at my calendar and get back to you,” instead of making immediate decisions that may impact your well-being and hormonal balance.Goal: Get more sleep.
Sustainable Change: Establish a consistent bedtime routine and gradually adjust habits that might interfere with quality sleep, promoting hormonal health and overall well-being.
Fertility and hormonal health are a journey, not a destination. Change happens when you show up, take small steps, and celebrate your progress. Building positive habits over time creates a foundation for long-term success.
Are you ready to tackle your hormonal health for sustainable fertility and hormone goals? Schedule a free Strategy Call to get a glimpse of how to get started.