New Year's Resolutions

Ready to make a New Year's Resolution you'll actually stick with this year?  On average only about 20% of us keep our New Year's resolutions, and unfortunately some of the biggest failures are found in fitness resolutions.  But don't let the statistics get you down!  West Loop Chiropractic has some great tips for turning your health and wellness goals for 2011 into reality.

1. Choose something attainable.  Not all of us are going to look like supermodels, so maybe you shouldn't set that standard as your goal.  Instead, aim for something you can achieve - you'll be less likely to quit if you're realistic.

2. Be specific.  Saying you want to be healthier it too vague.  Instead, make it your goal to be healthier by committing to quit smoking, scheduling regular chiropractic adjustments, or planning to eat more fresh produce and less fried, greasy foods.

3. Create an action plan.  Put your goals to work by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable chunks and give yourself a timeline for completing each smaller piece of your ultimate goal.  It may also help to schedule your workouts, adjustments, and any other necessary steps just as you would any other meeting or appointment to make sure they remain a priority.

4. Ask for help.  Teaming up with a friend or family member not only will offer extra support but may also help you stay on track and follow through with your resolutions this year.  It's also a great idea to ask a professional, like Dr. Rosen, Dr. A.J., or Dr. Neumann.  Research studies have shown that assistance from a professional greatly improves people's success rate.

5. Reward yourself!  Acknowledge your success as you accomplish those mini milestones along the way - it will help to keep you motivated and working towards your dreams.  A great way to celebrate success is with a massage at West Loop Chiropractic - especially after a particularly strenuous training session or exercise class.

6. Write it down.  Talking about your resolutions is a great start, but putting it in writing can make it more of an obligation or "contract" and something you're less likely to forget about once February rolls around.  Also, be sure to keep your list someplace safe and visible so it actually can serve as a reminder.

7. Give it time.  Most experts agree that it takes about 21 days to create a habit and six months for it to actually become a part of your daily life.  Have patience and stick to your goals - you can do it!

From all of us at West Loop Chiropractic, have a safe and happy New Year's!  Cheers!