With the holidays coming up, hopefully you are fortunate enough to have some time off, or at least a little more flexibility in your schedule. If so, it could be a good time to get a jump start on health and wellness goals you are considering for 2024.
Many of us will set at least one health and wellness goal as part of our New Year’s resolutions. Unfortunately, some studies suggest that 23% of us will quit in the first week, and only 36% of us will make it past the first month.
One of the top reasons for this? Being too busy!! (19%). Loss of motivation was cited as the top reason at 36%
I would like to focus on being too busy, and why these next 3-4 weeks may present a great opportunity for some to identify and set health and wellness goals they are much more likely to stick to for all of 2024.
The start of the New Year presents great opportunity, and for some a fresh start or “clean slate.” But it often brings a very busy schedule along with it. Kids (and adults) are back to school. New projects starting at work. Short days (in terms of daylight). A basic feeling that “hey people, holidays are over, so back to the grind.” Time to gut it out for 2-3 more months of winter.
But don’t despair. Even a few weeks of exploring and building new habits could help you set a great foundation to start 2024 with. There are potentially several advantage from now until the end of the year:
Time: Hopefully many of you will have some time off during the holidays. If so, it provides a great opportunity to try a few different activities. Taking 5-10 minutes for breathwork or meditation. Extra time to grocery shop and try preparing a delicious and healthy meal. 15 minutes to explore a healthy meal delivery service to use in 2024. You get the idea
Chance to Experiment: Not sure what healthy foods you like the best? Or which type of exercise / activity feels right for you? These next few weeks can be a great time to experiment. Maybe your local yoga studio or gym is offering a free day pass or class? Or you have always been curious about a fitness app. The next 4 weeks or so may give you a great opportunity to do a one-month free trial and see if you like it.
Family and Community: Family and friends can make great activity (and accountability) partners. Wouldn’t it be more fun to start doing a daily walk with your family members, especially if you have adult kids visiting over the holidays? Many communities also host fun events: a walk, or in colder climates an outdoor skating rink, or pick-up sports activities.
Spirituality: The holidays can be a time for reflection, gratitude and spirituality. Leaning into those moments can help clarify what is important to you, what you value and how you would like to hold and keep those values moving forward. Research shows goals tied to identity and values have much more sticking power.
I hope that you will be able to take some time over the holidays to play, experiment, reflect and find connection with family and community. Best wishes to all as you also prepare for an exciting 2024!
Will To Change Health & Wellness Coaching 