Creating Sustainable Resolutions
The new year always brings fresh beginnings and an opportunity to reflect on our goals. I personally love this time of year as it can be a good reminder to think of your goals and dreams and set actions in place to achieve them. While many resolutions focus on strict diets or intense workout routines, this year, why not work on building healthy habits that are more sustainable?
Here are my top five tips for creating lasting, positive habits that can carry you through 2025 and beyond.
- Leave the diet mentality in your past: Instead of chasing the latest fad diet, embrace balance instead. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods while leaving room for enjoyment. Food is fuel, but it’s also a source of joy and connection – let it to be both this year!
- Set realistic and achievable goals: I call these “90% goals” – goals that you are 90% confident you could do daily. Ambitious resolutions like “I’ll never eat sugar again” often set us up for frustration and failure. Aim for achievable changes, such as making half your plate veggies for dinner twice a week or walking for 30 minutes, 4 times a week. Small, consistent steps lead to big results over time.
- Prioritize planning and prepping meals: Life gets busy, and convenience often takes priority. Dedicate time each week to plan and prep meals and snacks that align with your goals. Whether it’s chopping veggies or preparing grab-and-go breakfasts, a little effort upfront makes healthy choices easier later.
- Move more: Movement isn’t just about burning calories—it’s about finding joy and keeping your body strong. Whether it’s dancing, walking, yoga or a hitting the weights in your basement, choose activities you genuinely enjoy, making staying active a habit you’ll love.
- Celebrate your daily wins (even the little ones): The road to healthier living isn’t a straight line and that’s okay. Instead of striving for perfection, celebrate small victories. Drank an extra glass of water? Great! Packed a healthy lunch? Amazing! Had a couple bites instead of a whole piece of cake for dessert? Focus on your progress, not about being perfect.
Here’s to a healthier, happier year ahead!
Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business.
Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more information.
