At the risk of sounding cliche, I can not believe it is almost the New Year! This past year, I made a wild (for me) New Year’s Resolution that challenged habits and behavior that I have had for most, if not all, of my adult life.
BY BETHANN WAGNER
At the risk of sounding cliche, I can not believe it is almost the New Year! This past year, I made a wild (for me) New Year’s Resolution that challenged habits and behavior that I have had for most, if not all, of my adult life.
While in one area I decided to throw down the gauntlet, I kept and continue to keep the same basic resolution each and every year since I was a wacky little 20-something. To be happier, healthier and fitter.
What I like about that resolution is a.) there’s no trouble finding others with the same resolution to help hold me accountable. It’s a universal resolution and for good reason! b.) Having the same resolution year after year (hopefully) means you are always improving! One thing is for sure, I have gotten better and better at keeping it and there are a few tricks I’ve picked up over the last 10+ years that have really helped me stick to it!
My 5 No-Fail Tips
1. Playlist Goals. Whenever I’m feeling like slowing down or even giving up all together, a good playlist makes all the difference. The songs that always gets me going? Beethoven (I Love to Listen To) by the Eurythmics and naturally, Work B**tch by the great Britney Spears.
2. Just Do It. For the days you don’t feel like doing anything, but you aren’t sick, sore or injured… make yourself. Sure, it’s a little harsh, but unless your body/soul is pleading for a day off, get moving. On those days I always tell myself, “10 min is better than zero!”
3. Don’t be too Hard on Yourself. Okay, I know I just said ‘make yourself move’ and I stand for that, but when your body or soul needs rest, listen to it. Rest serves your happiness!
"On those days I always tell myself, 10 min is better than zero!”
4. Take some pre-workout. If you asked me 2 years ago what ‘pre’ was I would have no idea and probably think it’s meant for Instagram fitness models, but none of that holds true today. I live for CLEAN+LEAN because it gives you loads of energy with zero jitters or anxiety and seriously allows me to go beyond my natural threshold for exertion.
5. Eat for Success. It goes without saying that eating well will help you get and maintain any fitness related goals you have, but I honestly believe it’s one of the most important aspects. A large proportion of your fitness-related results will come from a balanced diet. What does that mean? It’s different for everyone. I just did a DNA test to help me figure out the best diet plan for me and I can’t wait to get the results because because I know making dietary changes in my 20’s like no-gluten has made a world of difference.
Whatever your health and fitness goals may be, I hope these help you live a little healthier and happier! I’d love to hear more about your resolutions and how you plan to stick to them in the comments below!
Article and Images by Bethann Wagner. You can view more content by Bethann on her blog bethanimalprint.com and on her Instagram here.
Hi, I’m Bethann! I’m wifed up and have two rambunctious kids. My family and I live in Los Angeles (in less than 1,000 square feet) and I love sharing bits of our life and writing about skincare, fitness and motherhood.
When I’m not chasing kids around or hustling through the influencer grind, I’m looking for ways to be more eco-friendly. I’ve recently challenged myself to give up shopping for a whole year. It’s given me more more time for things I really love, like weightlifting, making protein smoothies, hanging out with my crazy family or sipping on a big ‘ole glass of local red wine.
You can find me online at bethanimalprint.com.
Visit our contributor section for posts on beauty, family and more.
8 Minimalist Brands You Need to Know
We’ve all read the articles, watched the YouTube videos and probably even read the book (you know the one) on minimalism and its impact on happiness and overall well-being. Minimizing and more sustainable buying principles seem to be all the rage right now and that probably won’t change any time soon. Sartorially speaking, an approach to minimalism can range from a 30-something piece capsule wardrobe, thoughtfully curated and strictly adhered to to an enviable wardrobe of fashion-blogger proportions made up off several trendy pieces (they are setting trends after all) with some minimalist-approved closet heroes.
I always have a tons of new patients in January with New Year’s resolutions and I must say that they are not the easiest to work with, but I have some great techniques! 🙂
https://www.deargaga.com/