With January coming to an end, so too is “National Weight-loss Month”. You start out the year ambitious. You are going to workout. Eat better. Make a better you. Then, you have a slip-up.
By late January, most people have given up altogether. It is estimated that 85-95% of all New Year’s Resolutions fail. The main reason is because the goals are too unrealistic from the start. Then a set back occurs and it becomes even further out of reach.
But let’s use this last week of January to set one attainable goal to take control of our physical, mental and financial health in 2015.
Ideas for a Better Physical, Mental and Financial Health in 2015
- Replace one junk food per week with an apple. This does two things. It forces you to gauge your appetite — “Am I hungry enough to eat an apple?” and you also receive the nutritional benefits of the apple.
- Increase your step count. While many organizations and fitness sites typically recommend 10,000 steps a day, any increase in activity helps to improve your physical health (and can help with your mental health). If you are at 2,000 steps per day, shoot for 2,500 steps.
- Commit to asking your doctor one question each visit. This could be regarding treatment options, over-the-counter alternatives, cost of services, etc. You are becoming more informed and it will lead to better decision-making.
- Try a generic brand when available. Whether it is prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines or even your routine household items, you can save significantly by trying generic alternatives.
- Increase your pre-tax contributions to an FSA or HSA. HSAs automatically rollover from year-to-year and FSAs often allow you to roll over up to $500 into the next plan year. (Check with your employer.) When you pay for your out-of-pocket expenses with pre-tax dollars, you are saving 30-40% on average.
- Take 5 minutes for yourself at the beginning of each day. Even 5 minutes can help you clear your mind and prepare you for all the excitement, troubles or strife that lies ahead.
Benefit Resource is not a licensed nutritionist, wellness coach, fitness coach or financial advisor. These ideas are not intended to contradict or replace physical, mental or financial advice from a licensed practitioner or advisor.
