New Year, New Habits - NW Personal Training

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The start of 2025 is a perfect time to focus on creating healthy habits that can improve your well-being for the long term. However, many people struggle to make these changes stick.

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5 Tips to Help You Adopt New Habits Effectively and Avoid Common Pitfalls

1 – Take Baby Steps

Trying to overhaul your life overnight can be overwhelming and unsustainable. Instead, focus on one or two small, manageable habits at a time. For example, commit to drinking an extra glass of water daily or taking a 10-minute walk. Once these habits feel natural, gradually add more.

2 – Be Specific and Set Clear Goals

Vague goals like “eat healthier” or “exercise more” can be hard to stick to. Define your habits in specific terms. For example, decide to “eat a vegetable with every meal” or “exercise for 30 minutes, three times a week.” Clear goals make it easier to track your progress and stay motivated.

3 – Create a Routine and Stick to It

Consistency is key when building habits. Attach your new habit to an existing routine, such as brushing your teeth or preparing your morning coffee. This technique, known as habit stacking, helps integrate new behaviors into your daily life easily and seamlessly.

4 – Track Your Progress

Use a journal, app, or calendar to track your habits. Seeing your progress visually can boost motivation and provide a sense of accomplishment. Book your habits into your schedule so you carve the time out for your health priorities. If you miss a day, don’t be discouraged. Focus on getting back on track quickly rather than striving for perfection.

5 – Find Accountability and Support

Share your goals with a friend, family member, or trainer. Having someone to encourage you and celebrate your wins can make a significant difference. Consider working with a coach or joining a group focused on similar habits to stay motivated and offer support.

What to Avoid When Adopting New Habits

Setting Unrealistic Expectations

Avoid aiming for drastic changes that are hard to sustain. Small, consistent efforts yield better long-term results.

Relying on Motivation Alone

Motivation fluctuates. Focus on building discipline and routines to keep going even on tough days when you’re not feeling inspired.

Negative Self-Talk

Be kind to yourself if you slip up. Viewing setbacks as learning opportunities instead of failures can help you maintain momentum. Striving for perfection can be the enemy of progress!

Building new habits takes time and patience, but the payoff is worth it. By starting small, being consistent, and seeking support, you can create lasting changes that improve your health and happiness well beyond the new year.

Yours in health & fitness,
Sherri McMillan

Healthy Habits Free Community Workshop:

Are you ready to transform your health goals from mere dreams into lasting habits that become part of who you are? Join Trainer Carson Aquino as he shares effective strategies for cultivating a healthier lifestyle in 2025. With credentials as a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition Specialist, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Strength and Conditioning Coach, and EMT, Carson brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. This is a discussion you won’t want to miss!

Date: Thursday, January 23rd, 2025

Time: 6:45pm – 7:45pm

Location: NWPT – 1011 Broadway Street