The new year is filled with determination to begin a new slate, rid old habits, start fresh, keep resolutions. The best way to reach your goals, whether it be to lose weight, deplete debt or be a kinder person is to chip away. Remove the pressure to be your best immediately and plan a process to achieve whatever your heart desires. Just as our magnificent landmarks become beautiful by erosion, this takes time and perseverence. Have faith in yourself. Put your mind to whatever you wish and make it happen in baby steps. Affirm all things positively. Practice random acts of kindness. If you fall off the wagon, dust yourself off and begin again. No worries.
Imagine your journey is like that of peeling an onion. You must remove each layer at a time to get to the core. Begin reducing your financial burdens by paying your bills on time and reducing credit card debt by paying more than the minimum. Sacrifice will be the key here. Forget about dining out and going to the movies for awhile. Be creative when cooking meals and refrain from impulse shopping. Stick to your plan. Once you start this regime, it becomes easier and eventually will feel natural. If you plan to lose weight, again, sacrifice. Learn to fuel your body with nutritional foods and modify your menu. Exercise more but begin with small increments if you haven't worked out in a while. Take walks at first, then include stretching routines and eventually your body will tell you it can do more. Include cardio and weights to your regime and your energy will increase. When you are confident enough, dabble in a yoga or zumba dance class. Make it fun and enjoyable. No matter what you heard, the secret to keeping fit is to eat less and exercise more. The secret to financial freedom is that cash is king. The secret to happiness is giving and gratitude.
Some people find encouragement working with support so find a friend or family member who has similar goals and encourage each other. Make this a new lifestyle, not just an interim improvement. You can do it, but it is your choice - success in your endeavors is totally up to you - no excuses. Be reasonable about how you determine what you want to achieve. Remember, as we grow older, it becomes harder to stay in shape. This is a natural fact, but with hard work and determination, and confidence, you can do it. Aspire to be your personal best. Reward yourself for small accomplishments by getting a massage or whatever makes you feel pampered. We are masters of our own destiny. Respect yourself. You are in control. You will see the results. Share your achievements. You are worth it. Make it happen.
Anything is possible if you keep the faith. xo
