5 Tips to Stick to those New Year Resolutions

Pam, Team Copper Fit

The beginning of a new year is so re-energizing, isn’t it? It feels like a clean slate; many of us take time to think about goals, adopt new habits, and drop old ones. New Year resolutions always seem like a great idea on January 1, but the problem is sticking to them. Six months into the year, less than half of resolutions are still kept. How about this: let’s shift HOW we make them and ditch resolutions that are too vague or too lofty to achieve. Change the focus so you don’t fall off the wagon too quickly.

Check out some ideas to reframe your resolutions this year:

#1 Swap the goal of Losing Weight for Feeling Stronger

When you don’t fixate on the number on the scale, you’ll be amazed at how you feel optimistic about your journey, not defeated by minor setbacks. Let’s face it, weight can fluctuate quickly, and it can be frustrating to watch the scale - and feel powerless. Instead, focus on building strength and muscle steadily. Muscle strength can also increase your metabolism to help you burn more calories! It’s not about being a bodybuilder - but working on strength as you age is vital to protecting joints, building strong bones, preventing falls, and enhancing your quality of life - all to help you maintain independence as you age.

Make it easy: Hide the scale; the key is adding strength training into your life. You don’t even have to hit the gym. Try these at home: simple squats, lunges, push-ups (against the wall, on your knees, or toes), step-ups on a stair, and even gentle yoga leads to strength and energy. Remember proper form when making a lunge: bend both knees to 90 degrees and sink into a lunge (your thigh should be roughly parallel to the floor). Don’t let achy knees keep you from strength training; Copper Fit’s micro-encapsulated menthol Ice Compression Knee Sleeve provides support and helps temporarily relieve muscle and joint aches and pains. The seamless, anti-chafing circular knit offers comfort and 4-way stretch for 360° flexibility.

#2 Swap the goal of Eating Healthier for Eating Fresh Foods at Every Meal

Don’t focus on crossing out all the “bad” foods (aka guilty pleasures) - instead, focus on eating more of the good stuff! Incorporate nutrient-dense fresh food into each meal. Before you know it, your body will crave healthy fruits and vegetables, and the sugar or salt-laden treats you used to enjoy won’t be so tempting!

Make it easy: Check local farmers' markets and make them a favorite activity. Plant a small garden or herbs on your windowsill! Make prepping your food enjoyable, listen to a favorite podcast, and spend some time chopping up fruit and veggies to grab on the go.

#3 Swap the goal of Working Out More for Moving your Body Every Day

Simple little changes every day add up! Don’t worry about clocking miles or hitting the gym X times a week; tell yourself you will move more daily. P.S when you feel comfortable, it’s easier to get moving. Try Copper Fit Energy Sport Socks; the combination of cushion and compression means ultimate comfort, whether going on a run or taking the stairs at the office.

Make it easy and fun: If you love socializing, meet up with a friend for a walk instead of going out to dinner after work. Make that friend your walking buddy, and catch up while walking at a set time each week. If you love books, listen to an audio book and tell yourself you must be moving while you listen - maybe while you clean the house, garden or hit the treadmill. Importantly: embrace the healthy body you have! Accentuate the positive with the Copper Fit Women's Core Shaper - a sleek, form-fitting compression belt that smoothes, shapes, and supports your core.

#4 Swap the goal of Lowering Stress for Finding a New Hobby

Doing something you love makes you happy! Think of favorite activities you’ve enjoyed throughout your life, make time for them, and stress will melt away - and make room for more joy to come in. Research shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer from anxiety, low mood, and depression.

Make it easy: It’s always invigorating to try something new. How about a painting class, making a quilt with friends, or joining a bowling league? Copper Fit Hand Relief Compression Gloves have moderate compression for everyday relief, and with the open finger design, you can do everything you love.

#5 Swap the goal to Sleep More for Creating a Nighttime Routine You Love.

Sleep is vital for mental and physical health. According to a CDC report, 35.2% of adults in the U.S. sleep for less than the recommended seven hours per night. Step one to getting a better night’s sleep is establishing a sleep routine. Sleep experts say that regular bedtime and routine increase the amount of sleep you get and the quality of that sleep.

Make it easy: We all know by now the bright light of the phone screen tells our brain to be alert, not sleepy, and that we should put the phone away an hour or two before bedtime. Instead of feeling like it’s a punishment, replace that screen time with a good book. Reading at night helps your body transition. And say no to caffeine at least 5 hours before bedtime - 10 is optimal! Although a glass of wine seems like the perfect sleep inducer -alcohol keeps us from the deep sleep we need. Instead, try a warm cup of decaf tea with sleep-inducing chamomile.

Head into 2023 with enthusiasm, and don’t let your resolutions feel like a punishment. Instead, restructure them to be enjoyable and doable. You got this!