Wanting to lose weight or quit smoking are often resolutions made at the beginning of the New Year? One University of Alabama at Birmingham wellness expert says there is a key ingredient to being successful health-wise in the coming year.
About half of the most popular resolutions made each year are health-related, according to the United States government.
In addition to losing weight and quitting smoking, they include eating healthier foods, getting fit, managing stress and drinking less alcohol.
Meg Baker, director of UAB Employee Wellness, says while the focus on self-improvement is good, an individual must be ready to make a change to do so.
"Readiness to change is a big factor," Baker said. "Based on the stages of change model: precontemplation (unwilling to make a change), contemplation (considering lifestyle change) and action, you have to want to change your lifestyle to successfully improve your health."
To help prepare for any lifestyle change, Baker offers some tips:
• Develop small, short-term goals that will fit into your schedule; these should be realistic.
• Consider the benefits and reasons for the change.
• Talk to a family member, friend or co-worker about goals; this accountability will increase the likelihood of your staying committed to a new gym regimen or smoking cessation plan, and they may want to join you.
Know more: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/12/1412...

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