It might be worth keeping inches and lbs out of your “New Year, New You”

A recent survey found that 42% of its respondents included losing weight as one of their New Year’s resolutions. It’s not uncommon to link shedding a few pounds with increased confidence and positivity.

Many think this idea stems from advertising imagery. Those images portray the beauty standards of our society, making those who feel outside the standard more pressured to lose a couple of pounds. Others just begin to feel those extra holiday calories. After all, weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year celebrations add up.

Even so, there are reasons people are rethinking weight loss as one of their resolutions.

Firstly, weight loss can be complicated. More often than not, it’s more than just going to the gym and counting calories. We forget the time it takes, and the mindset that needs to be changed. That can bring us into conflict with values and commitments already present in our lives.

Secondly, we can agree that some people are more serious about achieving their New Year’s resolutions, and that’s perfectly fine. That is why it’s more important to make sure the goals are attainable—and healthy.

If for some reason, you can’t achieve that weight loss, it can have an impact on your self-worth. You might view yourself and your body more negatively, just because you’re unable to get to that standard you have set for yourself.

A Revised Resolution

Instead of counting your calories and trying to get to the gym three times a week, maybe start with healthier meals. Make goals to include more vegetables next time you cook, or finally eat those pineapples when you order pizza. You can even try one of those fasting diets where you just eat whatever you want, but limit it to a certain time period. The most important part is that you don’t need to focus on the numbers, but more on the journey and redeveloping your relationship with food and diet.

Have a happy new year.