Month: December 2024

Resolve to do Something or…?

So many of us make New Year’s Resolutions.

Unfortunately, statistical data shows that only 9% of us are successful in following through on them.

Wow…9% is a pretty dismal number.

Why do so many fail to keep their resolutions? 

There are numerous possible reasons. For example:

  • Goals may be too vague
  • Goals may be too ambitious
  • No specific plan laid out
  • Underestimation of required time and effort commitment
  • No form of accountability
  • There may not be a compelling enough “why” 

The good news is that there are ways to help ensure that you will be able to stick to and achieve your goals. There is a tool called SMART goals that can help guarantee your success. You can read more about it here: 

Be SMART About Goal Setting

In addition, since many people have New year’s resolutions to improve their health, maybe that 9% number can be drastically improved if we think about things a bit differently. Rather than only resolving to do something, I submit that you should instead resolve to become something—a better version of yourself. Then begin to live your life today as your future self would, gradually modifying your behaviors to match those of the new you.

For instance, if you wish to drop 20 pounds, you can create a specific plan, use SMART goals, and commit to becoming a slim and healthier person. Envision and feel what it would be like to be 20 pounds lighter. How would you feel when you look in the mirror? Would you be more energetic? Would you have to buy new clothes? Write down everything you can imagine about your new life. Then, if this is indeed your truth, begin to live your life today as your authentic self. Take baby steps, change your habits, be consistent, and enjoy the journey. 

When it comes to health-related goals, don’t just make a New Year’s Resolution—become your future self.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Abuse? Consider Context.

A man shoves his son, causing him to fall to the ground and bruise his face. Does this make him an abusive father?

Fruit has a lot of sugar. Does this make fruit unhealthy?

A man pushed and injured his son. Fruit has a lot of sugar. These are facts.

From these facts, one may draw the seemingly logical conclusions:

The man is an abusive father.

Fruit is unhealthy.

However, like many things in life, context is critical. 

The boy was standing in the middle of a busy street, and his father pushed him out of harm’s way. 

The sugar in fruit is very different from the added sugar in processed foods.

Fruits naturally bundle sugar with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, slowing sugar absorption and avoiding harmful blood sugar spikes. Unlike sweets and other processed foods that can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes, fruits like berries have even been shown to lower blood sugar and insulin release—sweet, smart, and a true win for your health.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I hope you found it interesting and informative. Please feel free to share it.

Choose health, choose you.

Can You Lessen the Impact of Wildfires?

This is the number of acres burned in US wildfires from 2021-20231

Wildfires have been causing enormous amounts of environmental destruction and habitat loss. For many of us, the fires or their far-reaching clouds of smoke have hit close to home, threatening our properties and our health. 

Moreover, climate change has been a significant factor in precipitating wildfires.

However, there is some good news—a glimmer of hope. 

Given the impact of climate change leading to increasing fires, there is something that you can do to help. Actually, there are many things that you can do to help. But wait—who has time to help? 

How about starting with something simple and even selfish?

How about doing something that will benefit you as much as the planet?

As you may know, the foods you eat very often determine your health. Did you also know your food will affect the Earth’s health? Eating wholesome, unprocessed foods will have positive impacts not only on your health but also on the health of the environment.

Choose health, choose you:

1. https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/statistics/wildfires