don's report archive

by Donald B. Ardell, Ph. D.

Wellness in the Headlines
(Don's Report to the World)

A recent poll indicates that 86 percent of Americans make resolutions involving weight loss and fitness -- and that is just on the occasion of a New Year! Throughout the year, resolutions are made. Resolutions include commitments to cease and desist bad habits (for example, smoking, drinking or other varieties of so-called self-abuse), as well as to take up healthful activities (to exercise, be more positive, hang out with better company and so on). Resolutions are part of the culture in America.

A key variable in the fate of any resolution is a clear image of what you want, why you want it and how to get it. The more detailed and specific, the greater will be your commitment and chances of success.

Few people are specific enough with resolutions; most are casual. Failed resolutions are not harmless. Thus, weenie resolutions fated to go nowhere tend to break down your self-confidence, respect and energy levels, which dampens your enthusiasm for personal excellence. Mess with Texas but not resolutions. That's why I say the process of resolution-making is not for sissies!

For the 86 percent who fail at resolutions at the start of each year, there is little disappointment in doing so. That is because most do not expect to succeed in the first place! Most do not take resolutions seriously. However, the pity is that such half-hearted resolutions are made at all.

If you want to resolve to do or not do something, get serious (but not grim) about it. Be passionate about your intentions and work to make them come to pass. Avoid trifling resolutions that are unworthy of you, that do not summon the excitement of your best performance. Make one important resolution -- and use a simple wellness change process that ensures a thorough follow through.

Such a change process includes timetables, support groups, partners, rewards, benchmarks and actions. All this is designed to deepen your commitment. With such a process, the resolution is put into play. You are less likely to back out. Keep a diary for tracking progress. Include a clear completion picture so you know when you have arrived, succeeded or triumphed.

This process entails a written plan of action. Vague resolutions are less than worthless --they are a hazard to your health. Resolve to be well but don't do it until you resolve to make real, sensible and effective resolutions. Resolve NOT to make the weenie kind. Be resolute -- make it happen in fun and positive ways that enable you to continue to look on the bright side of life.

(Note: This essay will be filed in the archives in the PHYSICAL DOMAIN under the skill area of lifestyle habits. Additional articles related to this theme may be found there.)

(Ed. Note: Views expressed in this and other columns are those of the author and not necessarily those of the SeekWellness Editorial Board.)

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