This newsletter is brought to you by our partner, Mission Health.
3 ways to stay motivated with your New Year’s habits
Let’s make this the best year yet.
Ahh, the excitement of a fresh start. You set goals, make plans, and envision the best version of yourself in the new year — but as the weeks roll by, life’s demands can start to chip away at that initial motivation. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
The good news: Staying on track doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right mindset and strategies, you can keep your momentum alive and see those new habits flourish.
Here are three ways to keep your motivation strong and your habits sustainable.
1. Start small and celebrate often
Big goals are exciting, but they can also feel overwhelming. Break them down into bite-sized steps that are easy to tackle. For example, if your goal is to work out more, start with a commitment to move your body for 10 minutes a day.
And don’t forget to celebrate those small wins. Did you complete a full week of your new routine? Treat yourself to something you love: a fancy coffee at your favorite local coffee shop, a new book, or even a simple moment of gratitude for how far you’ve come. Every step counts, and celebrating progress keeps the journey enjoyable.
2. Find your “why” and keep it visible
Why did you set your goals in the first place? Maybe it’s to feel healthier, spend more time with loved ones, or finally check something off your bucket list. Whatever your “why” is, why not make it tangible?
Write it down and place it somewhere you’ll see daily, like on your mirror, as your phone background, or in your planner. Having a constant reminder of what’s driving you can help you stay focused, even on the days when motivation feels low.
3. Build a support squad
You don’t have to do it alone. Share your goals with friends, family, or a community of like-minded people. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a book club, or an online group, having others cheer you on can be a powerful motivator.
Accountability partners can also help you stay consistent. When you know someone is counting on you — whether it’s to join a gym class or chat about your progress — you’re more likely to show up and stay committed.
Building new habits takes time, patience, and a little bit of trial and error. Some days will be easier than others, and that’s okay. By focusing on small steps, staying connected to your “why,” and leaning on your support system, you’ll keep the momentum going long after the New Year’s buzz fades.
Here’s to making 2024 your most consistent (and fulfilling) year yet.
Category
Wellness
Start your wellness journey
Presented by Mission Health
Mission Health’s team uses the latest technologies and treatments to provide customized support and guidance. | Photo provided by Mission Health
A new year brings the perfect opportunity for a fresh start. For those looking to embrace healthier living, Mission Weight Management offers a comprehensive program designed to support long-term success.
Whether your goal is achieving overall wellness or managing specific health concerns like diabetes, Mission Health provides the tools, expertise, and guidance to make meaningful change possible.
A multidisciplinary team of experts
Improving your health should be a team effort. At Mission Weight Management, patients work with weight loss doctors, registered dietitians, and behavioral health specialists to create a path toward whole-body health.
Support, education, and individualized plans
Every person’s journey is unique, which is why expert providers develop personalized plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Offerings include:
Nutrition therapy
Medical monitoring
Physical activity guidance
Behavioral support
Educational classes
For those managing diabetes, the program also incorporates specialized education to help patients stay informed and in control of their health.
Long-term results
The program’s goal: Sustainable, life-changing outcomes. Whether patients choose the weight management program or pursue weight loss surgery, all participants benefit from lifestyle modification coaching, counseling, and support groups designed to foster long-term success.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the US. The good news: Mammograms can make all the difference in detecting breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. Make your breast screening a priority this year and schedule your appointment.*
Drink
Sip on this, Nashville. Whether you’re cutting back on alcohol or cutting it out completely for Dry January, Ritual offers zero-proof alternatives (think: tequila, rum, and more) with tasty recipes so you can BYOB (be your own bartender). Check out some of our favorites.*
Wellness
Breathing exercises can go a long way for stress management, helping to slow your heartbeat and lower blood pressure. Want to give it a try? Check out these five breathing techniques you can do at your desk, on your couch, or wherever you happen to be reading this.
Active
After working up a sweat, it’s important to stretch it out. Take a look at these six post-workout stretches to make time for after your next movement session, whatever that may look like.
Outdoors
Whether you’re strolling around Beaver Lake or biking the Parkway, being outside doesn’t just benefit your physical body, it has a host of benefits for your mental health, too.
