By Bronwyn Ison

The onset of a New Year generally encourages people to set resolutions. Some may prefer to reference these as goals or aspirations. However you define what you would like to achieve in the upcoming year, follow through should be a part of your overall goal. 

Most resolutions are abandoned within the first two weeks of the year. Once you hit the thirty-day mark you don’t think twice about the goals you set and you’ve reverted to your old habits.  As a Wellness Professional, most people desire to be healthier, lose weight, and make more time for themselves and family. Each of these desires is very important and tops the lists for a reason. 

New Year group exercise and yoga classes appear to explode with passionate students eager to commence their workout goals. While this is admirable and very much appreciated there is another way to step up your fitness game. Private instruction is gaining greater momentum. Why? If you are seeking to work on an area within your practice or a specific yoga posture, the instructor can enhance the time you spend together. Some students may approach one-on-one training with one goal in mind.  They embark on a journey that address other areas of their lives and realize yoga is the vehicle. While one person may train privately temporarily, others will practice with an instructor consistently. Students may perceive private training costly.  You are worth the investment!  Consider asking yourself a few questions. What are my physical goals?  Where do I see myself three, six, nine and twelve months from today?  What are you willing to do to go the extra mile?  Why is this important to me?  What does this goal look like for me? 

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Setting goals is easy but it’s the follow through that counts. Most people set unrealistic intentions for themselves.  Cleary, this leaves you feeling overwhelmed and you quit.  The more often you quit a set intention the less likely you are to set new goals.  Why? Because you know you are prone to give up based upon your previous history.  We are inveterate creatures.  We have a tendency to repeat poor behavior.  This diminishes our willingness to try again and can abolish our confidence. 

Set an achievable goal.  Once you realize the fruits of your labor you can add the next one to your list.  If your goal is to lose 20 pounds, try losing five first.  After you lose the five pounds, add another five.  Twenty pounds can seem so far off and may leave you frustrated.  It’s fine if you approach your end destination slowly and progressively. 

Giving up is easy.  The end result requires dedication. Remain focused and diligent and you will achieve greatness. Keep in mind, anything that’s worth anything, requires you to be in the game. 

Bronwyn Ison is the Owner of Evolve Yoga. www.e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA(9642)