There is only one thing more promising than a Monday and looking forward to a full, fresh week of opportunities before you. And that is when January 1st falls on a Monday. Instead of just a week, we have a whole year of possibilities and second chances. 2018 can be your  fresh start on improving your personal health and quality of life.

When making a New Year’s resolution last, approach is king. So if you’re one of the millions looking for a chance to make yourself proud this year, this one is for you.

The four steps to success

Want your goals

Trying to change a behavior because someone else told you – even your doctor – can make it harder to succeed. Your goals should be a reflection of your ambitions. Getting up early to work out is a lot easier when it’s for you than for someone else.

Small steps can make a big difference

It’s a lot easier to lose one pound than it is to lose 25 pounds. But we often only set those big resolutions and then become depressed when we don’t reach them. Why not set a resolution to lose one pound a week for 25 weeks? It’s best to set specific goals and make tiny tweaks to what you normally do.

Prepare for the obstacles

Because they will come. The trick to beating obstacles along your path to success to to prepare for them. Before you start, think about how you will overcome problems when they happen. Too often, when something goes wrong (like missing a day working out or wanting a cigarette after a stressful morning), we don’t have a doable plan for how to overcome that challenge that doesn’t involve guilting yourself. 

Be inspired

It might feel  like you’re the only person trying to reach your particular goal, but that’s not true. There is help available. For help quitting smoking, visit SmokeFreePhilly or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW. To find ways to reach your fitness goals, visit PhillyPowered for inspiration and free or low-cost ways to be active throughout the city.