The New Year is here and with it comes New Year’s resolutions.  You might say, “I’m giving up…” or “Everyday I’m going to…”  These resolutions are well intended and may even come from a meaningful place.  But people tend to stick with them for a few days, weeks or maybe even a month, and then fizzle out.  Why is it so hard for these new behaviors to become habits and part of daily life?  It is because the new desired behaviors require a significant amount of change, which individuals try to make all the necessary changes at one time.  It is hard to stick with behavior change that is drastic. Far too often, individuals are motivated to make changes to improve their health, but frustration and feelings of being overwhelmed by drastic changes creep up and get in the way.

It is helpful to focus on making small realistic changes that you feel confident about.  It is easier to make small changes become habits.  You can then build off of these changes to incorporate new behaviors that lead to a healthier you.  So this New Year, if you find yourself wanting to make a New Year’s resolution, think small, simple and attainable to help you be successful!