Resolving to do Better in 2013

By Tim McKnight

As we put the holiday decorations away and say good-bye to visiting family and friends, it is time to get back to our pre-holiday routines. With the ringing in of the New Year comes the opportunity to learn from the last year and resolve to do better in 2013.

Many of us will think about resolving to lose a few pounds, exercise more, spend less money, quit smoking, or maybe just be nicer to others. A few will actually even write down these intentions. When it comes to changing behavior, one thing is clear; setting goals with the same approach that has failed in the past, will fail in the future.

We are all wiser than we realize. Each “failure” in our life is really an experiment. Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” Reaching your goals is really more of an attitude and a feeling than a positive affirmation or raw will power.

Life is a wonderful teacher. We learn best from our experiences, including our failures, when we ask the right questions. Asking yourself, “Why can’t I lose weight” is a question that will reinforce failure. There will be no solutions to this question, only reasons and excuses. A better question is, “What are some things I can do to lose 20 pounds?” The answers to this question will flood your mind like a wave of inspiration. In your heart, you can usually identify one or two key behavior changes that are the most critical for your success.

Reaching your goals will require you to follow a four-step process: Plan, Execute, Evaluate, and Revise.

First, Plan with your mind. Envision in detail what you want to accomplish and how you will feel, look and behave once you have achieved it. The clearer the vision and the more real you anticipate the end-result, the more powerfully you will approach the next step.

Second, Execute with your might. This requires discipline. Each small step, each small success will build your capacity to exercise greater self-control. Never break promises to yourself. To thyself, be true.

Third, Evaluate with the heart. At the close of each day honestly evaluate how you did. Ask “good” questions about your performance so that answers, not excuses, will be revealed to you.

Finally, Revise with the spirit. Correct your course and like Edison, learn from what role models and mentors look to and follow.

Each of us has within us the seed of greatness. Our potential to achieve and become is limitless. Make 2013 the year you discover who you really are!

Dr. Tim McKnight is Director of Trinity Hospital Twin City’s Fit for Life program. For more information about Fit for Life, call (740) 922-7450, ext. 2124.