Change was a common theme for the year 2020. Going into 2021, we are all hoping for positive changes. Whether you thought this past year went by in the blink of an eye or lasted an eternity, we can all agree that we are glad it is over. Many people are excited for 2021 to be here, hoping to end the last year, but having the mindset that things are still going to be changing.
Making a new year’s resolution is recommended. We have hopefully seen the worst of this pandemic, so having a resolution can look forward to hope. With gyms closing, travel plans cancelled, jobs lost, and family get togethers limited, it is hard to look back at this year and think it was well worth it. Looking to 2021, while still unsure where we will end up, it is important to be positive. Goals shape how we live our lives and continue to grow.
Reflect on this past year. As much as we want to look forward, it is important to reflect on this past year. Think about what things you would want to change in your life to make 2021 great. Here are some resolution ideas to consider:
- Weight Loss/Exercise: The stressful year may have added some unwanted pounds. Instead of adding an unreasonable amount of exercise and calorie cutting that may ultimately fail, create a resolution that promotes self-compassion and kindness. Make a routine that has a backup plan. For example, if your goal is to get to the gym three times a week, make sure you also have a home workout planned out in case the gyms close!
- Healthy Habits: Instead of focusing on dropping the negative habits that fill your day, contemplate adding a healthy new habit to your routine. This could involve trying yoga, writing in a daily journal, or going to bed earlier. Focusing on something positive can avoid getting frustrated and giving up.
- Become More Social: It is easy to get cooped up and stay at home with everything being virtual. Being isolated from family and friends leads to higher risks of depression and loneliness1. Make a resolution to stay in touch, whether it be talking on the phone, meeting for dinner as restaurants open or finding a safe group outdoor activity. Make it a goal to do this weekly or monthly!
- Increased Awareness of Mental Health. The effect of the COVID-19 virus on mental health has been a huge concern. With this in mind, assess how you are mentally feeling going into this new year. Is work more overwhelming than usual? Ask yourself if you need to take time off to decompress at home. Has your vacation been cancelled because of the COVID restrictions? Consider an Airbnb somewhere in Minnesota. Are having the kids at home all day driving you crazy? Do not hesitate to call a babysitter and get together with friends!
No matter what your New Year’s Resolutions may be, we recommend a goal that will lead you to a healthier and happier life! If you want a professional to help you meet your health and wellness goals contact us today for a free consultation!
Happy New Year!
Hillary Rotunda
References
1Powell, Alvin, “Social Distance Makes the Heart Grow Lonelier”. 4 May 2020, https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/05/how-to-ease-loneliness-and-feel-more-connected/
LYL Executive Assistant
Starting from when she was a little girl, Hillary’s passion has always been in living a healthy way of life through movement and eating right. She played many sports when growing up but ended up sticking with volleyball and softball through college at Concordia College in Moorhead. While at Concordia, she earned a double major in exercise science and nutrition, graduating in 2015. After moving to the cities from my long-time home of the Fargo area, she was not quite sure what her passion was until she started working as a personal trainer. She learned from brilliant personal trainers and physical therapists, which led to her discovery of corrective exercise being her passion. She has decided to finish up the classes needed to apply for physical therapy school, which she plans on doing soon! She is excited to be at Live Your Life Physical Therapy to learn as much as she can from Dr. Norman and all the physical therapist on staff!
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