New Years is upon us. It’s the time of year when most people make some sort of resolution and most of the time, they are health related. We all know how that goes, by February you’ll probably forget what the resolution even was. Let’s be honest, we all suck at new years resolutions. I want to present you with another idea. I call it the next best thing.
Take 5-10 minutes and sit in silence. No phones, computers, kids or other distractions and ask yourself this question: “What is the next best thing I can do for my health?” I bet you won’t even need 5-10 minutes. Most people can answer this question within a minute or so.
Intuitively, we already know the answer to this question. The answer will be different for everyone, and it should be. We are all at a different point in our lives and health journey. Don’t get your answers from social media, or your spouse, or TV, or even from this blog post. Get if from within you. You already have the answer.
What is the next best thing you can do to improve your health in 2023. Focus on one thing. Instead of saying I want to lose weight, what is the one singular change you can make that will lead to losing weight? Something like, I will stop snacking after dinner is much easier to focus on and will lead to significant weight loss. I will stop drinking pop, I will eliminate desserts, I will give up french fries. Pick one small thing that will lead to the big thing.
Most people give up on their resolutions because they are too big and lofty. Start small.
What Next best Thing Should I Pick
Don’t be afraid to pick a next best thing that deals with mental, emotional or spiritual health. All of these are important and connected to physical health. Next best things like, starting marriage counseling, joining a men’s/women’s group, praying, meditating, reading one book a month are all great health goals too.
Physical health goals are also a great choice too. So many people say they want to exercise more. That is very vague. I will walk 3 mornings a week, I will go to the gym 3 times a week, I will do 50 pushups everyday. Remember, small things lead to big things. Chunk it down to bite size pieces and start chewing on those!
The list is endless. There are so many small, next best things you can choose from. Go within yourself and see what your inuition is telling you.
Write it down, commit to it, and maybe even tell a close friend to help keep you accountable.
I get excited at this time of the year. I love a new chapter, a fresh start. Let’s work together to make this our best year yet! I’m on your team and would love to help you in any way I can. The next best thing will bring you so much closer to a better you. Good luck!!
Yours in Health,
Dr. Steven Bourdage DC
