Every year we make our New Year's resolutions in hopes that we will have our best, healthiest, most prosperous year ever.  We make the resolution, but then what?  We often go a few weeks or even months moving toward the resolution, but slowly we get back into our old habits and routines.  

This year write down your resolutions as your main goals.  Be sure to quantify and provide a time line for the goal.  For instance:  I will lose 20 lbs by April 5th, 2012 at 5:00 pm.  This not only gives you a number to work toward, but by writing down a date and time you are further solidifying your goal in your mind.  Once you have reached your goal, celebrate.  If your goal is to lose weight, give yourself a spa day to celebrate your new look!  Then move on to the next goal.

Another great way to make sure your New Year's resolution doesn't fizzle out is to say daily affirmations.  Affirmations are a statement of your goal combined with visualization.  Instead of using the words "I will", switch to the present tense by saying "I am".  Then be sure to include a positive action word like "enjoying", "excited", "proud", "elated", etc.  Here's and example:

"I am proud that I weigh (enter goal weight)"

"I am proudly making $5,000 per month"

"I am ecstatic to be standing on top of Mt. Rainier" 

"I am excited to be moving into my own home" 

"I am enjoying living a peaceful and balanced life" 

By using the present tense and visualizing yourself taking the steps to reach your goal, you are more likely to move toward that goal without even realizing it.   Say the affirmations over and over many times per day.  For instance, say them in the morning when you get up, during your lunch break, and then before you go to bed.  This will keep your goal in the forefront of your mind throughout your day and even while you sleep!  

Although saying them out loud is the best, thinking and visualizing work too!  Take some time to write down your goals for the year, this month, this week, etc. whatever it takes to get you there.  Then say your affirmations daily and before you know it you will be living your resolutions!  

Here's to a happy, prosperous, peaceful and healthy 2012!

Yours in Health,

Dr. Allison