Making 2018 Your Year

Like many of you, I have made New Year resolutions in the past and not been able to stick to them for one reason or the other... I'm sure I came up with a few reasons to justify it for myself like many of you have. Normally, a month or two into the new year we (yes, me included) tend to forget the reason why we set the goals in the first place and we lose motivation. We have to make a plan and stick to it in order to not fall off the wagon again. Here are some tips I plan on using this year to help me accomplish my goals in 2018, lets get it done!

- Write it down:

Writing things down can be a great daily reminder of what you want to achieve. Put it somewhere you can see it every day- don't just write it on your phone or in your calendar. Your goals have to be upfront and visible in order to catch your attention or else it will be forgotten! In 2015 when I got my LPGA card I wrote my goals on a post it note and put it on the bathroom mirror. I saw it everyday before I went to the course. Doing that gave me confidence and purpose behind my daily actions. You'll be surprised at how much of a difference this will make.

- Don't give yourself an option:

One of the easiest ways I work to maintain a healthy diet is to throw out all the junk food... I know what you're thinking, but its not that bad. If I have it in the house it makes it much easier to cheat and go for the junk food. I love this tip because it definitely applies to more than just food. If your goal is to watch less tv and read more; keep your book on the couch and the remote put away! Give yourself a little head start and before you know it you'll be able to stick to those new, healthy habits without feeling like you're giving something up.

Here is one of my favorite protein smoothie recipes to help kickstart your healthy eating! If I know I am going out to run errands I make one of these before leaving the house to help me forego the fast food!

Peanut Butter and Banana Protein Shake

1 scoop Whey protein powder

8oz almond milk

1 tbsp peanut butter

1 banana

4 cubes of ice

Put all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.

- Tell someone, Stay Accountable:

I know, this is probably the oldest trick in the book but, accountability is so crucial in achieving goals. Although it sounds scary to tell people your goals, it will make it harder for you to get off track. If you want to workout more, tell a family member or friend your goal and ask them to hold you accountable. Make it interesting for both parties, make a bet or set up a reward for yourself once you reach those goals and celebrate with the people who care enough about you to hold you acountable!

I also use the Fitbit blaze as a tool to keep me accountable. Set goals within the Fitbit app and use the watch to stay on track. I wear it during my workout to see my heart rate and to ensure I am making the most of my time. You can make a competition with yourself or add friends and compete with each other through the app!

On a side note: I have started reading a book called "Boss Bitch" by Nicole Lapin that I highly recommend! As you can tell by the title it's mainly for my ambitious ladies out there but there are many good tips you can get no matter your gender. Lapin talks about taking control of your decisions and how to be a "boss bitch" no matter your current situation or workplace.

I hope you all enjoy and find these tips helpful! I am constantly trying to better myself and improve. Let's all remember we are human and even if you slip up on your resolutions, we can always get back on track. I am proud of your commitment and can't wait for you to have a Happy, Healthy, and Purposeful 2018.