Have you made a New Years Resolution for 2014? Making it a S.M.A.R.T. one will improve your odds of success for a fulfilling new year..

S. SPECIFIC

It is difficult to hit a target when that target is ill-defined.  Specificity allows you to hone your focus, and with more focus, the likelihood of success increases. Being more specific also allows you to communicate effectively with your support group, making it easier to be held accountable. Example: I will see my chiropractor at least once per month in 2014.

M. MEASURABLE

This parameter involves a quantification of your wants. Saying that you want to lose weight in 2014 is not the same as saying you want to lose 15 pounds and 3 inches off your waistline during that same time period. How will you know you’ve achieved your goal if you cannot measure it? Being able to measure your achievements also allows you to create smaller, more achievable milestones. Experiencing smaller accomplishments along the way can be a source of positive reinforcement, sometimes providing the necessary ‘boost’ in more difficult times.

A. ATTAINABLE/ACHIEVABLE

With respect to goals and goal-setting, the ultimate purpose is to experience the feelings associated with achieving success. If your sights are set too high, it is unlikely you will ever realize these feelings. Furthermore, if goals are set with unachievable expectations, your feelings are more likely to be associated with failure instead of success. Also, see little slip-ups along the way as opportunities to practice your will-power and resolve, not examples of your inabilities.

R. RELEVANT/RESULTS-ORIENTED

What makes your resolution meaningful? Goals and resolutions are more likely to be followed through to their completion when they are significant to you. What impact will it have on your life in the days/weeks/months/years ahead? When you connect with its value, you will be more apt to invest the time, energy and resources to see it to fruition.  Example: having my spinal misalignments corrected regularly not only feels good, but it also improves the function of my nervous system, which improves the quality of my life!

T. TIME-SENSITIVE

Having a specific time-frame to accomplish something lends a sense of urgency to the task. This increases the likelihood that you will avoid procrastination. Having specific timelines also allows for the goal to be split into smaller, achievable steps. This allows for one to experience multiple smaller successes on their way to the pinnacle of their achievement.

This year, make it your resolution to take care of you.  Every other intention you set for 2014 will work out better when you enjoy better health.  Here are 5 health tips from our clinic to you:

1. Get regular chiropractic adjustments – your chiropractor will help you determine what the appropriate frequency is for you, depending upon your lifestyle.
2. Exercise regularly – movement prolongs the life of all bodily systems – make it a habit to take the stairs, or to park a little further away than usual from your destination.
3. Drink 8-10 cups (8oz.) of water every day – the body consists of at least 65% water, so keep replenishing your fluids with clean, filtered water. Your body loses water while you sleep, so drinking 2 cups of water first thing in the morning will replenish your lost fluids, as well as help flush out the toxins that have accumulated all night.
4. Think positively – good thoughts lead to good feelings, and good feelings contribute to good health.
5. Sleep at least 7-9 hours per night – sleep is restorative for all systems of the body, and good quality rest is priceless!

So what are your resolutions for 2014? We want to hear from you, and help you to achieve your health goals! Here are some from our patients..