Keeping it Real. Keeping it Bespoke.
New Year's resolutions are made…and broken. But resolutions that stick require some introspection up front: What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses? Will I fall and be able to pick myself back up? Do I give in...or give up when things get tough? How do I will myself to persevere?
Tough questions. Tough answers--tough to swallow that is. The problem with most New Year's resolutions is that we set ourselves up for failure rather than for success.
Have no fear. As the hotel manager Patel says in 'Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,' everything will be all right in the end and if it isn't all right, it's not the end. (This is actually a John Lennon quote, by the way.)
Here are a few tips to help you reach and realize your rational, reasonable resolutions:
- Start With a List (or three): “To Do Right Away,” “Waiting For,” and “Someday/Maybe.”
- There should be specific goals on your “To Do Right Away" list. Focus on your intent: For example, instead of making a broad statement, like “I'm going to eat healthy," narrow your focus and say “I am eating an extra serving of vegetables each day.” Or, "I am drinking one less cup of coffee per day." Totally doable when made measurable! And when you write it using the present participle, it's as if whatever will be already is.
- Use affirmative language AND be specific. Say what you will do, not what you won't do. This will focus your energy on the desired outcome rather than the actions or behaviors that must stop.Example: "I'm not going to be a slug on the sofa.” Instead say, "I am going to add a two mile run to fitness routine each week."
- Make your goals as specific and concise as possible. Keep it under 15 words.
- Include a finish line...with a date. Dates keep you accountable. Don't overthink things too much. Just pick a date. List your start date and the end date next to your goal.
- Finally, integrate your resolutions into your daily life. Keeping that note on your refrigerator as a reminder to stick to one cup of coffee each day acts as a tangible, visible cue each day. If you are tempted later in the day by that Starbucks around the corner, take a moment to reflect on the morning cue, grab your $4.00 and put it in an envelope. The cash saved in your envelope will be your reward for the month. Creating new, positive habits, that replace unhealthy ones, is a sure way to stay on track.
Along with daily integration of your goals, here are a few other ways to help keep you on track:
- Share goals with others who are also committed goal-setters-- it allows them to support and assist us;
- Make choices that move towards achieving vision and goals, rather than those things that are in conflict. Simply, if you are trying to reduce your coffee consumption, meet your pals at a David's Tea rather than at a Starbucks.
Finally, remember:
You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
--Marcus Aurelius
(Read more at http://bit.ly/1evvOCu)
BESPOKE YOGA ANYONE?
We're all striving to live healthier lives in the new year...physically and mentally. That's why we're introducing Bespoke Yoga, at Studio DelCorpo, the first yoga class of it's kind anywhere.
A highly curated and intensely personal (and personalized) experience for strength and wellness in body and mind, Bespoke Yoga combines the art and philosophy of Bespoke Fitness with the principles of Vinyasa Yoga.
This six-week prorgam is designed for yogis who want to transcend their current fitness levels, while exploring different dimensions of individual practice...and uncovering the hidden applications of yoga in the process. This all happens with great attention to the individual, within an intimate group setting.
The program will be led by Katarina Arneric, a Chicago-based Power Vinyasa instructor (trained in the Baron Baptiste style of power yoga). She graduated from the University of Texas with a BFA in dance, and received her certification as a health and nutrition coach from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. (For more information about Katarina, please check out her blog at: http://www.klahealth.com/)
Classes begin Jan. 12 and will be held every Sunday for six weeks from 10:00am - 11:00am at Studio DelCorpo, 1115 West Armitage. Cost is $150 for the six-week program. Spaces are limited.
To register and reserve your spot please email cheryl@delcorpo.com.
Happy New Year and cheers!
Brilliant. Easy. Bespoke. Studio DelCorpo is Bespoke Fitness(R).