WNKY News 40 Health Report: Making New Year’s Resolutions Stick

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A new year often means a new start…which is why many people make New Years resolutions. From getting physically fit to getting financially fit, resolutions fall across the spectrums.

But resolving to do something and actually accomplishing it…are two different things. Sarah Widener, R.D., the Health and Wellness Director at the Medical Center at Bowling Green says the actual percentage of New Years Resolutions that are kept is slim — at only about ten percent. But, she offers some advice:

Start small.

Widener says it’s important to have goals that can be reached and when you reach that first goal, make a new one that is a little more challenging. She says to set reminders to do things that work you towards that goal.

She also says it’s important to make the resolution part of your regular routine. And if you’re still having trouble reaching your goal, talk to an expert about the problem. For example, if you’re having trouble losing weight, talk to a dietician. If you’re having trouble getting physically fit, see a personal trainer.

She also says having an accountability partner is important — someone that is going to check in on you to see how you’re doing.