5 Steps to a Successful New Year's Resolution

So here we are.....

Just a few days away from 2009 and all those new year resolutions, but just how long are they going to last this year?

Are you like most people who, to be fair, really want to stick to that new diet, or break from alcohol, or no cigarette pledge, but after a week or so find themselves doing exactly what they said they wouldn't.

So why is that? Why are these resolutions so hard to keep up?

I think it's because people are way too vague when they start something new. It doesn't have to be a new year, I see it all the time with people who want to lose body fat or build muscle. With that in mind I usually get new clients to follow the following 5 steps. Does it work? Let's have a look at the 5 steps first.....

1) Know exactly what you want.
It really doesn't work if you are vague here. Most people really don't know how much weight they want to lose and in what amount of time. They'll say something like "I want to lose a few pounds before the summer..." This won't cut it people. Be definite here, "I want to lose 15 pounds of weight by the 31st of March 2009!!" Now we have a definite goal and target date. This person is much more likely to hit the goal than the first.

2) Know exactly why you want it.
You need to take ego out of the equation here and be very honest with yourself. People usually have different reasons why they want something so don't be led by the crowd. To be honest this can be very uncomfortable to do but is an essential step to follow.

3) Know the price.
We're not just talking about the financial cost here. Changing body composition will usually mean lifestyle alterations and dietary change. A big price to pay for some but would it be worth it to finally have the health and physique you crave? Thought so!!

4) Be willing to pay the price.
So you've decided what you want, why you want it, and what it will cost. Now are you willing to do it? A lot decide NO!! I was once told that champions do everyday what losers do occasionally. They are the one's who put on their trainers and head out into the dark and cold to do their interval sprints while everyone else has 30 minutes more in a warm soft bed!!!

5) Pay the price
If there is a financial cost, get the money out of your wallet / purse and pay it. If you have to avoid wheat and dairy for a few weeks then make sure you do. A bit of short term displeasure can mean the difference between success and failure.

Be that champion in 2009

Paul