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Don’t Make a Resolution. Make a Plan.

January 4, 2017

Don’t Make a Resolution. Make a Plan.Did you know the term “New Year’s Resolution” is actually in the dictionary?

According to Merriam-Webster, a New Year’s Resolution is a promise to do something differently in the new year.

The MacMillan Dictionary is a bit more specific. It says a New Year’s Resolution is a decision that you make on the first day of the year about the things that you intend to do or stop doing during that year.

There are a ton of surveys about top New Year’s Resolutions, mostly from companies trying to peddle their products and services. But the most popular resolutions always fall into three categories:

  • Losing weight and becoming healthier
  • Making or saving more money
  • Enjoying life to the fullest

All of these categories of “resolutions” have one thing in common. If you want to reach your goal, you need to do more than make a promise or a spur-of-the-moment decision.

You need a plan.

The problem with New Year’s Resolutions is that most are based on a desire for instant gratification and, in many cases, desperation. People put their faith – and their money – in gimmick diets and “get rich quick” schemes that end up doing the exact opposite of what they’re expected to do.

Diets make people unhealthier and “get rich quick” schemes make people less financially stable. As I always say, you die on a diet. They just don’t work.

It’s no surprise that a quarter of Americans bail on their resolutions within a week. People set themselves up for failure and disappointment, which just creates more stress and sometimes leads to depression.

If you really want to make a New Year’s Resolution, resolve to be kind to each other. If you see someone struggling, help them. Do the little things, like holding doors open for people. These things don’t require a plan. They just require a good heart.

After a bitter election season, I’d like to see more people respect the views and beliefs of others. Instead of engaging in petty arguments about politics on social media, volunteer your time to support the causes that are important to you. Resolve to use your energy in a more productive way.

But if you really want to make meaningful changes to your health, your finances, or your level of happiness, you need a plan. When it comes good health, the first step is to understand what true wellness is, and what must be done to become well. You need to have a plan that guides your decision-making on a daily basis.

Most people are unable to do this on their own. That’s okay. It’s a lot more complicated than “eat right and exercise.”

Developing a wellness plan requires a comprehensive exam, testing and assessments. Executing a wellness plan requires guidance and support. Sure, there are things you can start doing today on your own, like eliminating processed food and soda from your diet. But if you want to make permanent changes and avoid or reverse chronic illness, you need a plan.

Natural Healthcare Center can help. Our goal in 2017 is to empower people from all walks of life – from the boardroom to the living room to the classroom – to embrace a wellness lifestyle.

You have the power to change your life for the better. But you have to take the first step. Give us a call, and let’s work on it together.

 

 

Dr. Proodian

Dr. James Proodian is an accomplished chiropractic physician, health educator, and professional public speaker who founded Proodian Healthcare Family of Companies to help people feel better, function better, and live longer. His expertise is in identifying clinical imbalances and restoring the body to health and functionality. Contact: jproodian@naturalhc.com or (732) 222‑2219.