New Year, New You? Healthy Lifestyle Changes You Can Make!

As the year comes to a close and the new one begins, it's natural to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. Today, we’re going to answer a couple of common questions that arise during this time of the year: what is the #1 New Year’s resolution, how do you pick a good New Year's resolution, and what are 10 practical tips for a healthy lifestyle. So, let’s get started!

What is the #1 New Year's Resolution?

Year after year, the #1 New Year's resolution for many people is to lead a healthier life in some way. For 2023, Forbes found, through a poll, that the most common resolution was “improved mental health, Regardless of the specific goal, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve overall well-being and happiness.

How Do You Pick a Good New Year's Resolution?

Selecting the right New Year's resolution is crucial to ensure success and avoid disappointment. To pick a good resolution, it's essential to be realistic and specific. Avoid setting vague goals like "get fit" or "eat healthier." Instead, opt for achievable targets like "exercise for at least 30 minutes five days a week" or "consume five servings of fruits and vegetables daily." Being clear about your objectives increases the likelihood of staying on track throughout the year.

Popular New Year’s Resolutions: What Are 10 Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle?

Here are some of the most popular New Year's Resolutions. Coincidentally, these are also ten great tips for how to lead a healthier lifestyle – physically and mentally. Let’s take a look:

  1. Make Diet Changes: Even small changes to your diet can make a big difference in your overall health. Swap for healthier picks or even try intermittent fasting.

  2. Set Fitness Goals: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Set goals and stick to them as well as you can.

  3. Prioritize Mental Health: A healthy lifestyle isn't just about physical well-being; it also encompasses mental and emotional health. Take time for yourself this year!

  4. Sleep Better: Create a soothing bedtime routine, avoid electronic devices before sleeping, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

  5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water impacts so much in the body. Bring a bottle with you everywhere and sip on water all day long.

  6. Limit Screen Time: Whether you want to cut out short-form video content or all extraneous screen time, this resolution can help you reduce stress and be more present. 

  7. Be Financially Responsible: This may mean putting away a set dollar amount every day, reducing your number of morning lattes, or just cutting back on extraneous spending.

  8. Try “Mindful Eating”: By practicing mindful eating, you can prevent overeating and develop a healthier relationship with food.

  9. Learn Something New: Want to learn a new language or learn how to knit? Maybe you want to learn how to snowboard. Whatever it is, go for it and make it happen!

  10. Seek Medical Advice: If you've been putting off seeing a healthcare professional about any health concerns, make it a priority this year.

As the new year approaches, consider making healthy lifestyle changes that align with your goals and aspirations. Pick a resolution that is specific and achievable, and remember to be patient with yourself throughout the process.

From all of us at Suncoast Surgical Associates,

Happy New Year!


Previous
Previous

5 Surprising Facts About Lung Cancer

Next
Next

Dealing With Holiday Heartburn