Get a Jumpstart on Your Resolutions!
by Kristin Sprows, BS, ACSM CPT
Global Occupational Health & Wellness

Why wait until the New Year to set your health and wellness goals or to start making smarter choices? There is no better time than the present to take even the smallest step toward a healthier lifestyle.

Setting S.M.A.R.T. goals help to not only keep you moving forward, but also help you focus on your progression and destination.

S=	Specific. The goal should outline in detail what you are working towards. For example: “I want to lose ten pounds” rather than “I want to lose weight.”
M=	Measurable. Choose a goal that can be measured with progress. For example: “I want to lose six inches off my waist in the next six months.” This allows for measurements throughout the six months to ensure that you are on track for the end result or if changes to the plan need to be considered.
A=	Attainable. Goals should be set high enough to challenge you, but with the knowledge and belief that it can be reached.
R=	Realistic. This does not mean it should be easy. A plan needs to be set up that will offer realistic options to attain the set goals. For instance: Walking 10,000 steps throughout day is more realistic than walking five miles all at once on a treadmill if you do not have more than an hour to devote to fitness within your day.
T=	Timely. There has to be a timeframe for a goal or else the commitment level may decrease. “I want to lose ten pounds by April 15, 2010” is a specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely goal.

Write down your goals, mark your calendar to periodically measure your progress, and adjust the plan accordingly. Getting focused before the holiday hustle begins will strengthen your resolve and help you make good choices, such as planning healthy meals while you’re out shopping instead of grabbing fast food and deciding to park farther and walk rather than hunt for a close parking spot.

Take your first step toward a healthy New Year.