Ring in 2019 with some SMART Goals!

This new year is a perfect time to get started on some new goals or resolutions! Improving health, nutrition, and overall well-being are popular resolutions, but they can be hard to do. Let’s explore tips for goal setting and example goals that relate to health and wellness!

SMART Goals
What does it really mean to create a “SMART” goal? SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable (or realistic), Relevant, and Time-bound. At the start of the year, it can be tempting to think about “big picture” goals you want to reach. However, small steps are what will help you achieve your goals. SMART goals are targeted at these smaller steps to improve your chance for success!

Stay Hydrated
Fluids are important to keep your body functioning properly. An example of a SMART goal would be to bring a bottle of water to work 5 days a week. To save money on bottled water, try a fun-colored water bottle or thermos that can be reused. When you are feeling hungry, try to take a few sips of water first before reaching for a snack. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger!

Make Time for Breakfast
Make a quick breakfast before heading out the door to start your day off right Whole grain toast with peanut butter and banana slices or hot oatmeal with dried cranberries and honey will start your day off right. An example of a SMART goal is to eat a balanced breakfast three times a week. Check out these breakfast ideas that can be prepared ahead of time!

Bran Muffins
Breakfast Parfait
Breakfast Roll-Up
Peach Muffins with Oatmeal Topping
Rise and Shine Cobbler
Single Serving Oatmeal

Be More Active
Physical activity improves heart health, lowers stress, and can help you achieve a healthy weight! It is recommended that adults should do 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 times a week. There are many ways to be active throughout the day! Going on a walk with your pet, taking the stairs instead of an elevator, vacuuming floors, and strength training all count. An example of a SMART goal would be to go on a 30-minute walk Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and do 30 minutes of strength training on Tuesday. Find some activities are exciting to you and get started!

Add Veggies to your Meals
MyPlate recommend that you fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables at mealtime. Planning out vegetable side dishes for dinner time will expose you to new recipes you may not have tried before! Leafy greens, crunchy carrots, beans, and winter squashes all count as vegetables. A SMART goal would be to add one vegetable to lunch and dinner each day. Need some inspiration? Check out this vegetarian casserole.