Do you always end up giving up on your New Year’s resolutions? Well, Intermountain Health experts have some insight into why that might be. According to them, if you set unrealistic goals, or the wrong ones altogether, you’re setting yourself up for failure. You’re not alone if you’ve resolved to lose weight this year. Unfortunately, statistics show that most people who set out to do this end up falling short, and eventually abandon the goal by February. At Intermountain Health, experts believe that setting unrealistic expectations and solely focusing on overall weight can be to blame for this trend.
Healthy weight is of course important, but there are so many other factors you could be considering that would also signify an improvement in your health. Jake Veigel, MD from the Lifestyle Medicine and Wellness Center at Intermountain Health, explains that it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. There are other measurable factors that are better indicators of overall health.
Dr. Veigel suggests that it’s important to approach this issue holistically. Before embarking on any health journey, start by speaking with a doctor and getting a physical. An annual checkup can not only serve as a guide for your health journey, but also offer important tests for markers like cholesterol, kidneys, and A1C levels. Intermountain Health also offers comprehensive health and physical screenings as part of their LiVe Well Center Assessment Plus.
This assessment doesn’t just look at weight, but also metabolism, body fat, and fitness level. It considers what’s best for you individually, not a one-size-fits-all approach. It also includes personalized care from counselors, nutritionists, and exercise specialists to help you build a custom plan. Along with the assessment, Dr. Veigel also offers some tips:
- Pick goals that are within reach and achievable. Small, gradual changes are better than aiming for a drastic overall transformation.
- Enjoy the exercises you choose to do. It’s much easier to stick with them when it feels like fun, not an obligation.
- Throw out diets and focus on a long-term lifestyle change. Instead of heavily restricting what you eat, focus on adopting healthier eating habits.
- Remember that consistency is more vital than perfection. Progress comes from persistence, even when you experience setbacks.