This newsletter is brought to you by our partner, Mission Health.
Stay the course: Tips for staying on track with your 2025 goals
This is the perfect time to check-in on your 2025 goals and realign your focus for the year ahead. | Photo by Pexels
The first weeks of a new year bring excitement, determination, and the motivation to build a better version of yourself.
But let’s face it: As we move further into February, it’s easy to lose steam. How do you stay on board with your goals when the initial buzz starts to fade?
The secret isn’t just in setting goals — it’s in creating systems that keep you grounded and committed throughout the year.
Here are a few tips to help you stick with it this year:
1. Revisit and refine your goals
Sometimes, the goals we set in January need a little tweaking to match reality. Take time to reflect: Are your goals still realistic and aligned with what you want? Adjust them if needed — it’s better to modify than to quit altogether.
Break larger objectives into smaller milestones and give yourself timelines to achieve them. Progress feels more manageable when you have clear, actionable steps to follow.
2. Schedule check-ins with yourself
Consistency thrives on accountability, and the best person to hold you accountable is: you. Set a recurring date —weekly or monthly — to check in on your progress.
Use this time to celebrate wins, troubleshoot challenges, and adjust your approach if something isn’t working. These check-ins can be a motivating reminder of how far you’ve come and keep your momentum alive.
3. Make it fun
No one sticks to a boring plan. Whether your goal is fitness, learning a new skill, or improving your well-being, find ways to make the process enjoyable.
If you’re aiming to move more, try a dance class, hike a new trail, or explore a sport you’ve always wanted to try. If your goal involves meal prep, challenge yourself to cook recipes from different cuisines. Adding fun into your routine can make your habits feel less like work and more like play.
4. Give yourself grace
No journey is perfect. Missed workouts, skipped study sessions, or indulgent meals aren’t failures — they’re just part of being human. Don’t let one slip-up derail your entire plan.
Instead, focus on how you bounce back. Remember: consistency doesn’t mean perfection; it means showing up, even after setbacks.
Your goals are worth it, and so are you. By revisiting your goals, staying accountable, keeping it fun, and practicing self-compassion, you’ll stay the course and continue building the life you want.
Here’s to keeping the momentum alive in 2025, you’ve got this.
Category
Health
3 tips to keep your heart strong
Presented by Mission Health
For 50+ years, Western North Carolina has been able to count on the patient-centered cardiologists at Asheville Cardiology Associates. | Photo provided by Mission Health
February is Heart Month, which means now’s a great time to refocus on the health of your most important muscle.
Heart health isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach — it evolves as you move through life’s stages. That’s why the experts at Mission Health are here to guide you with simple, effective tips tailored to every age.
1. Start early with healthy habits
For those in their 20s and 30s, building a strong foundation is key. Stay active with regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and don’t skip routine checkups. Preventive care now can lead to a lifetime of heart health.
2. Focus on cholesterol and blood pressure
In your 40s and 50s, keep an eye on cholesterol and blood pressure. Regular screenings are essential, as high levels of either can increase your risk of heart disease.
3. Stay active at every stage
No matter your age, physical activity is a heart hero. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Walking, swimming, or even dancing can strengthen your heart and improve overall wellness.
Did you know? Hospice is about focusing on quality of life and making the most of precious moments with loved ones. And families often share that they wish they had chosen hospice care sooner. Enter: CarePartners Hospice, here to guide and support your family’s journey. Learn more or start the conversation.*
Eat
Start your day right with these quick and healthy breakfast ideas. From protein-packed smoothies to energy-boosting bowls, these recipes are delicious, easy to make, and perfect for busy mornings.
Drink
Did you know? Your brain and your gut are said to be directly linked,and a healthy gut can help improve your mood. Enter: Olipop, a new kind of soda packed with gut-boosting goodness.