Are you on track with 2015 resolutions? Email
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Wednesday, January 28, 2015 07:00 AM

 

resolutions

The most common New Year’s resolutions among Americans are to lose weight and exercise more – among almost 25% of us. But if you combine all the health-related resolutions (stop smoking, eat healthier, etc.) improving health constitutes almost 50% of our top concerns and changes we plan to make this year.

Month 1 is about to end and even if you’ve fallen off your path, it’s not too late to get going again. Improved health brings a sense of well-being. It makes us sharper in our jobs and other pursuits. And for businesses, good health among the team can result in less down time and reduced insurance premiums. 

Here are 5 things the American Psychological Association says we can do to keep the momentum going.

No. 1 – Set small, attainable targets you can reach throughout the year that will ultimately bring you to the big goal.

No. 2 – Make incremental changes. Rather than targeting 5 things to change all at once, change one unhealthy behavior or habit at a time.

No. 3 – Talk it out. Ask for support from family and friends who can keep you honest and on track. Get together with co-workers who share your goal and set a pact that helps everyone encourage each other on the follow through. Make group decisions to eliminate office junk food and schedule walks together on breaks.

No. 4 – Don’t get down on yourself. Everyone hits bumps along the way and you’re not the first to do so. If you’re already off track before the end of month one, remember there are still 11 months ahead. Get back on track and keep moving forward.

No. 5 – Get professional input if you need it. Work with a personal trainer, talk through issues with a counselor or consult with a physician.

Do your part to make 2015 a great year for yourself and your team.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
What’s the trump card – skills or character?
Why one company puts skills first
Mi Casa is resource for Denver metro employers
Building green: Colorado trees could be new construction resource