Happy New Year!  I hope you’ve had time to rest and enjoy the holiday season.

How do you feel about setting resolutions?  I’ve been asking my Pilates clients and most say they don’t set them.  I don’t either.  The statistics show that only about 9% of people follow through on their resolutions.

Last year I decided to set an intention for myself to go to the gym four times a week and lift weights.  I went through menopause at the height of the pandemic when gyms, parks, and beaches were closed in Los Angeles.  After 15 years of consistent weightlifting, I didn’t work out for almost two years.  It showed - I gained fat and lost muscle.

My intention became my small promise to myself.  Last year brought two huge challenges - losing my Mom and closing my e-commerce business that I poured so much time, energy, and money into.

My commitment to taking care of myself through lifting weights four days a week carried me through such a hard year.  I put myself on the list and it paid off in profound ways.  I shed 13 pounds of fat and gained two pounds of muscle.  I made better food choices, it helped to boost my mood and I found it built self-confidence and self-trust. 

I find that resolutions are often built around deprivation and restrictions.  This time of year brings out all of the diets and cleanses.

What if you approached making changes from a place of gaining and adding rather than losing and restricting?

If you want to make changes to your diet what about adding more protein or drinking more water?

If you want to make changes to your exercise routine what about adding more steps in your day or picking up heavier weights?

If you want to make changes to your relationships how about saying “no” (placing a boundary) and letting family and friends know what you need?

Start small and make it a daily commitment to yourself.  Imagine where you’ll be this time next year.