Almost half of all Americans make at least one New Year’s resolution. Although we don’t all follow through, the simple act of making a resolution has positive effects on behavior change. One study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that those who set New Year's resolutions are 10 times more likely to change their behavior than those who don’t.
Here are some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions and tips on how you can successfully accomplish them.
Lose Weight
The most common resolution Americans make each year is to lose weight. As the new year approaches, people often dive head first into dieting fads, then pull back or lose control shortly after. If weight loss is your goal this year, consult with your doctor and use that professional advice to set realistic weight loss goals. Also, remember the 3 Rs to make long-term dietary changes:
- Reflect on your current eating habits.
- Replace unhealthy eating habits with healthier ones.
- Reinforce these changes in your daily life.
Exercise More
Getting more exercise is another popular resolution that is often broken as people struggle to prioritize their fitness against work, family, and everyday life. Research shows that physical activity has immediate health benefits; it can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve quality of sleep to aid insulin sensitivity. To learn more about how to boost your success in keeping this resolution, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Move Your Way website.
Quit Smoking
Another popular resolution that aligns with self-care is to quit smoking. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s never too early to quit. There are plenty of tools to help you through it, including free assistance provided by your FEHB carrier. Over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy products can make it easier to break a nicotine habit, but it’s always best to start by reaching out to your family doctor for advice.
Improve Finances
After all the holiday spending, many people are eager to get on top of their finances in the new year. Some want to get out of debt while others are more focused on building up their savings. Regardless of your financial goal, your Component Employee Assistance Program can provide consultation services or refer you to a screened financial counselor who, in a no-cost initial telephonic financial consultation, can provide you help in making your family budget.
Focus on Self-Care
Whether you want to spend more time reading, have more quality time with your family, plan to learn a new skill, or take up a new hobby, the new year provides you with an opportunity to set goals for self-improvement. You might also consider removing activities that don’t support your lifestyle changes. Your Component Employee Assistance Program provides you and your family members with free, confidential, and professional consultation that can help you set these goals as you plan for self-improvement.
Tips for Success
If you plan to make New Year’s resolutions this year, limit the number of resolutions you make so that you can focus on making important changes to spark positive change. Choose a specific, realistic goal and break it down into small, achievable steps. Write your goals down and seek support through your friends and family to hold yourself accountable. Don’t be discouraged if you slip up from time to time; view these relapses as an opportunity to renew your resolve to achieving your goals.
Employee and Family Readiness
The Employee and Family Readiness team is committed to serving you—the front line of our country’s security. Your mission is challenging, and you often work long hours in remote locations as you execute critical homeland security missions.
We aim to support you and your family with practical assistance for everyday issues that can arise in these challenging circumstances, and with support during times of crises and unexpected emergencies. For more information visit the Employee Resources website or contact the DHS Worklife team at worklife@hq.dhs.gov.