Starting New Years' Resolutions Now

Thanksgiving is just over a week and a half away.  That means there are 44 days until Christmas and 51 days until the start of 2013 (depending on when you’re reading this!).  It always seems to me that this time of year flies by in the blink of an eye.  And before you know it, you’ve had one too many helpings of stuffing and pecan pie. If you’re planning to wait until the New Year to get your health and wellness in order, why wait?  I plan to set mini goals now so that I start out 2013 in good shape.

My first mini goal is to run a few races before the end of the year so that I keep myself training and focused.  I am running a half marathon this month, as well as doing a 5k Turkey Trot.  I may compete in a couple of small races in December.  With the change in weather and available sunlight, I find it really easy to skip workouts.  However, if I have a race lined up, I have a financial and personal investment in making sure I find time to run.

My second mini goal is to try and stick to small portions for dessert or split a dessert with someone.  I love dessert and trying to eliminate it completely doesn’t work for me.  However, during the holidays I know I’ll be presented with a lot of food options.  If I make it a goal to consume a mini portion, I’ll be able to enjoy all the holiday treats without going overboard.

My third mini goal is to make sure I set aside time for myself each day to decompress.  The holidays can be a stressful time of year for a variety of reasons, so I want to try and minimize any pressure I’m feeling.  Walking, window shopping and writing are a few activities I like to do with a free moment.

Could setting mini goals (or big goals!) now help you start out the New Year on the right track?  Take your lunch to work instead of eating out?  Help prepare holiday meals so that healthy foods you enjoy are included?  Sign up for a holiday themed race?  Tell me what else you can do between now and the end of the year.

It’s definitely okay to look beyond the next few weeks as well.  If you’ve been interested in joining a gym or fitness program, and the next session doesn’t start until after the New Year, consider signing up now so that you make the financial and personal investment to do it.  Put it on your Christmas list as a friend or family member may consider making that investment for you (or with you!).

Also, look ahead to race calendars for next year or other fitness opportunities you might want to tackle.  I have set a big goal for myself next year.  I’d like to run 13 races in 13 months.  My ultimate goal is 13 half marathons but I am concerned my hamstring is not fully healed.  If I need to pick a shorter race to try and minimize injury, then I will.  It’s more important to make a journey like this enjoyable (I want to still like running by the end of it!).  As you decide what your journey in 2013 will include, keep me posted.  I know I’m going to need support so I’m happy to return the favor and cheer you on too.

Whether someone is happy with their current health and wellness or not, consider creating goals.  Goals help create a sense of commitment and purpose.  It can also create excitement and a sense of adventure, when planning to do something new or different.  I'm excited to set mini goals for the rest of the year and prepare new goals for 2013!

Cheers to you this holiday season!
Miss FitGab