Are you making the same resolution this year because you broke it again? Do you make a serious effort for a month, maybe two, and then give up?
You’re not alone. If you’ve tried to lose weight every year, consider weight loss surgery, or if you’re still smoking, talk to your doctor about medication. If your resolution is one of the most commonly broken ones, there are options for professional help to ensure your success this time.
1. Quit Smoking
Smokers are easy to find everywhere, but those who have successfully quit seem to be rare. It’s estimated that the average smoker tries to quit anywhere from 6 to 9 times before they are successful, and very few are able to do it without help.
This year, stop dealing with the cravings and the stress of trying to quit cold turkey, and don’t waste more money on over-the-counter solutions. Talk to your doctor about prescription options that have been helpful for many, such as Chantix. If you want to be sure this is your last time making this resolution, try counseling along with medication for the maximum amount of help.
2. Learn Something New
You may have resolved to learn something new without a particular thing in mind, however, it’s more likely there’s something you’ve really wanted to learn for years but never stick to. Maybe you want to learn a new language, but at the end of each year, you can still only greet your waiter at a restaurant and maybe place an order, but not much else.
This year, enroll in a class instead of trying to do it on your own. If your quest is academic, check out the course list at your local community college. If there’s a craft or other skill you want to learn, ask around where supplies are sold, such as a music store if you’re looking to learn guitar or a sporting goods store if you want to start kayaking.
3. Lose Weight
If you’re one of the many people who have resolved year after year to lose weight, you know how frustrating it can be when you’re not successful. You’ve probably tried every manner of exercise routine and fad diet on the market.
If these haven’t worked for you and you’re morbidly obese, consider bariatric surgery, which is covered by many insurance plans and has had great results for many. If you’re not a candidate for a surgical option because you only need to lose a moderate amount of weight, spend the money this year for a personal trainer so you can spend your time working on a new resolution next year.
