Why I don't believe in New Year's Resolutions

I have a really hard time with New Year's Resolutions. As a fitness professional, I have seen far too many people crowd into the gym for the first three weeks of the New Year, only to fall back into old habits by the end of January. Those of us who are die hard fitness enthusiasts are frustrated with the crowds, parking, and all around crazy that inevitably dies off in 30 days or less.

So, if I'm so anti-resolution, how can I achieve my goals? The reality is that I don't need a New Year to set a new goal. I don't even need a Monday to set a new goal. Every day is a new day to start fresh, exercise, eat better, be grateful, hug our loved ones, and set new goals. 

I started using S.M.A.R.T. goal setting several years ago, and now it's a natural process for me that I don't even realize I'm mentally going through prior to setting a new goal. If you are struggling with goals, try to limit yourself to five at a time. Take out a piece of paper for each of your goals and write out how your goal is:

• Specific

• Measurable

• Achievable

• Realistic

• Time-bound

If you are unable to answer each of these questions, then it may be time to re-think your goal. Have fun with goal setting and remember to have an accountability partner.