Top 5 ways to stay motivated in 2013

The start of a new year is the perfect time to turn a new page, which is probably why so many people make new year's resolutions. A new year often feels like a fresh start, a great opportunity to eliminate bad habits and establish new routines. Of course, resolutions are much easier to make than to keep and once you get started, staying motivated can be its own hurdle.

Whatever your resolution, we asked the staff at Dalplex for their top tips to help keep you on track with your goals and stay motivated in 2013.

1. When starting out, create a road map for change. Write down your goal. Make it specific and realistic. Break your overall goal down into small, more easily achievable goals every few weeks. In other words, make a commitment to change by making a plan and sticking to it, rather than just hoping things fall into place on their own.

2. Plan ahead. Consider what time and resources you need and then plan accordingly. For example, if you're trying to eat better, make sure to have healthy snacks on hand wherever you go. If you want to be more active, set aside time during your lunch break  to take a walk and make sure you fit in exercise on the weekends.

3. Don't go it alone. Having a partner at your side who is working on a similar goal can make it easier to stick with your plan. Talk to your friends, spouse, family members or coworkers about your interest in leading a healthier life and invite them to join you in your efforts.

4. Ask for help. If you're finding it difficult to make changes on your own or you're starting to lose focus, seek professional assistance – whether that be from a personal trainer, nutritionist or your doctor. They can help you take the right steps towards meeting your goals.

5. If at first you don’t succeed…try, try again. There is a lot to be said for this old adage and it might in fact be the biggest key to success for many people. Change is a process and takes time and effort. Just because you missed a few workouts or ate the rest of the leftover Christmas cookies doesn’t mean all is lost. Cut yourself some slack, remember that you are human (and therefore not perfect) and get back on track. There is no rule that says you must quit if you slip up – quitting is a decision you make on your own.

If being healthier and exercising more often was one of your resolutions this year, be sure to take advantage of the fitness facilities on campus – a Dalplex membership is included for most full-time students and great discounts exist for full or part-time faculty, staff and Dalhousie alumni. (Learn more about memberships.) And visit the Dalplex website to learn about winter term intramurals, fitness programs and more!

If you think you need a little extra motivation and support to stay on track this month, check out Dalplex on Facebook and Twitter (@dalplex) for our daily January Jump Start motivational messages!