Tips for a Successful New Year’s Resolution

ZANESVILLE, Ohio–A new year is a chance for a new you with a new year’s resolution.

Resolutions can be easy to give up on, but Genesis Primary Care Physician Assistant Michelle Garber has some tips for success. She says losing weight and quitting smoking are two of the popular resolutions for the new year. However, she advises people to make attainable goals.

“You want to set goals that are easy to reach and are exciting when you do reach them. You want to be able to hold yourself accountable as well and pat yourself on the back. If you confide in a trusted friend or family member, they can help you with those goals,” Garber said.

Garber says that talking with a primary care provider might benefit a person with a health related resolution. Providers can help a person set safe and realistic goals.

“If you start with too big of a goal, you are going to get frustrated,” Garber said. “(Having) just two less cigarettes next week or (losing) a few pounds by the end of the month, that’s exciting when you do that because you actually put work towards that resolution in the end.”

It’s important to stay on track to meet the resolution. However, Garber says it’s okay if you fall off track and to treat yourself with kindness if you do.

This story was submitted by WHIZ News Intern Alison Patton.