The Good Old New Year Resolutions

The fatal flaw with New Year's resolutions — and most goal-setting, for that matter — is that we typically bite off more than we can chew. We're not setting realistic goals. As such, we end up disappointed and, often, with a forgotten resolution by the time February rolls around.

Ahead are 14 realistic goals that anyone can accomplish in a calendar year — things that are not only doable but also enjoyable and will eventually become so second-nature, you'll forget they were resolutions. The best part? Each contributes to a happier life and a healthier body and brain.

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Take More You Time
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We're guessing you maybe gave a little too much to others this past year and not enough to yourself. Perhaps you were stretched too thin or overextended yourself. That's OK! It was a time for learning and growing. In the new year, it's OK to say "no" sometimes and take a little more time for yourself. Whether it's for getting organized, doing a solo workout, or just binge-watching your favourite show from your bed, allow yourself some personal space in 2018.

1 / 14
Stop Doing That 1 Workout You Hate
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This is your year, this is your time. You don't have to run to lose weight, you don't have to do indoor cycling to be healthy (or cool). If you truly hate running, then why are you doing it? If the answer is "because I have to," you're dead wrong. The same goes for all other activities. Use the new year to find something else that you do love that will have the same kind of healthy effects on your body and brain.

 2 / 14 
Unplug a Little More Each Day
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You don't have to break up with technology (that's ridiculous), but this year, do small things to unplug and reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and your environment. Maybe give yourself a few more minutes in the morning before you check email, or don't charge your phone next to your bed. You could even do a tech-free Sunday each week to truly let go. The world is your iPhone-free oyster.

 3 / 14 
Learn 1 New Healthy Recipe You LOVE
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We're fairly certain you can accomplish this in a calendar year — after all, you only have to find one. This may take a little trial and error (particularly if you're new to the kitchen arena), but once you find something you love, you can incorporate it into your weekly menu — and thus, daily eating habits — for years to come. Start with some of our suggestions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

 4 / 14 
Ditch the Foods You Hate
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If you're sick of kale, we've got news for you: it's time to stop trying. Force feeding yourself foods you hate simply because they're "healthy" is a surefire way to ensure your diet plans backfire (and your mood won't be awesome, either). Even dietitians recommend finding foods you love and indulging now and then. Let go of the crap that makes you miserable and figure out what fuels your body and your soul. It IS possible!

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 5 / 14 
Add 1 Low-Impact Workout to Your Routine
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Rima Brindamour

We're fans of running, HIIT, and plyo, but for the love of all things holy, give your knees a break this year. They may not have let you in on their secret yet, but your knees love those activities a lot less than you do. Before you become irate: we're not suggesting you stop doing these workouts (unless you hate them, in which case, refer back to slide two) — simply that you supplement your high-impact routine with some low-impact strengthening exercises. Pilates and yoga, anyone? We'll never tell you to ditch Barry's or Orangetheory (because we can't imagine life without them), but mixing things up will help extend the life of your joints and allow for many more workouts for years to come.

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Make More Time For Breakfast
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lexi Lambros

You've probably heard this your whole life, but breakfast is important. Whether you've got weight-loss goals or you're trying to add more protein to your diet, there are so many options for making breakfast easy and stress-free (hello, make-ahead meals).

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9 Weight-Loss Breakfast Ideas From Real Success Stories
 7 / 14 
Throw Your Scale in a Dumpster
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim

And then burn it. Honestly, if you haven't set your scale on fire yet, are you really living? While it might be a helpful tool now and then for weight loss, there are so many ways to measure your success without that infernal tool. The number on the scale means nothing, and in fact, if you are also partaking in the weightlifting New Year's resolution, that number might go up thanks to compact, heavy muscle.

 

Source: www.popsugar.com.au

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