New Year's Resolutions!

The New Year is a common time to reflect on what we want to improve upon. Often times, these changes are related to behaviors involving food, exercise or tobacco, all of which affect your health. Below are some tips to help you make and keep your New Year’s resolution.

1. Be realistic – Set a specific, practical goal that you can achieve. For example, you aren’t going to lose 100 pounds by February but you can walk 3 days a week for 60 minutes.
2. Make a plan – It is a whole lot easier to be successful if you have a specific plan for achieving your goal. For example, if you are ready to quit using tobacco, start by researching Nicotine Replacement Therapy, and talk to your doctor to determine if medical assistance is right for you. Also, plan what you will do when you get a craving. Find helpful hints at www.gethealthywashoe.com/tobaccofree/adults.php
3. Find Support – You will be more likely to stick to your resolution if your friends and family support you. Tell them what your goal is and give them specific ideas on how they can encourage you.
4. Don’t give up if you slip up – We don’t want to think about giving in to that cigarette or piece of chocolate cake, but most likely it will happen. If it does, it is okay. Don’t let a slip up derail you from your long term goal.
5. Celebrate your success – Don’t wait a full year to determine if you were successful. Set up mini-goals for short time frames, like a month, and be proud that you made it that far. Give yourself a reward that will help motivate you to keep going.

Congratulations on taking the first step to improve your health!