Sweat is Fat Crying. Word.

Each New Year brings with it a new set of resolutions. I will stop eating junk food. I will stop spending money. I will stop this. I will stop that. Change is not bad. I’m not using this internet space to convince my readers against new years resolutions. However, I’m encouraging a new mindset. Stop being so negative! I heard a friend advocating “goals” rather than “resolutions.” However, I think the New Year requires a commitment to both goals and resolutions. The difference may not seem big but, in reality, the difference is HUGE. It’s a mind switch.

A resolution is an act of resolving or determining upon on action or a course of action, method or procedure. A resolution is a firmness of purpose. I have have determined to do such and such. However, purpose without objection will fizzle into nothingness. Without a concrete goal, what are you working toward? A goal is the result or achievement toward which effort is directed. Goals are purpose. Not only are you resolving upon an action or course, you are defining that action or course. One without the other is sure to fail.

Here’s where we drop the negative mindset. Instead of saying “I will not eat sweets” we determine “I will be healthy.” Instead of “I will not spend money” determine “I will save money.” I have decided to label this year “Get Healthy 2012,” and I’m inviting you to join in on my journey. It’s no longer about “skinny” but about “healthy.” I am currently working my way through the “Insanity” program. I have determined to keep pushing myself through the workouts. Workout programs are a great tool to guide you through your health journey. What I love about “Insanity” is Shaun T uses only your body to workout. No weights or bands or “extras” required. However, the program is intense. So unless you’re ready to work, stay away! The name does not do the program justice. Insanity is not insane, it’s suicidal. But it works!

So, first step, find a workout program that works for you. Second, start eating right! This is where the mind switch comes in. I have decided to replace one meal a day with a smoothie called Green Monster Spinach Smoothie. Not only does it cut down my calorie intake, it fills my body with healthy veggies and fruits. If you’re interested, click on the link! The smoothie tastes awesome. My variations include adding a scoop of Jillian’s Vanilla Whey Protein and lots of fruit. I’ll either add blueberries or strawberries or mango! Adding fruit helps balance out the taste of spinach. Another smoothie I would suggest is the avocado smoothie. This smoothie looks weird but tastes wonderful, very sweet in nature. I add my protein scoop to either one of these and I’m good to go! My “sweet” intake is now coming from delicious fruits and naturally sweet foods. Complete mind switch! I also keep healthy snacks at hand (almonds, reduced fat triscuit crackers with humnus, grapes or apples). The idea is not to starve but nourish yourself!

These are a few humble suggestions from someone determined to be healthy this year! I want to be the best I can be. It’s not about anyone else. I may not be there yet, but I’m one step closer than I was yesterday. If you feel like quitting, don’t throw in the towel, use it to wipe the sweat off your face! Make resolutions, set goals and make 2012 the best year yet!