Roughly 39% of people in the United States set New Year’s resolutions, according to a 2022 study. Of those who make New Year’s goals, around 40% want to lose weight.
However, you don’t have to follow that crowd. You can make other health improvement plans for the new year that don’t involve dropping weight. Here are a few ideas:
Eat healthier foods and stay hydrated.
Eating food that’s better for you might lower your risk of certain health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Consider aiming to cook your meals rather than order takeout or use prepackaged ones, which aren’t as nutritious.
Because hydration is important for your overall health, you could also set a goal to drink more water each day.
Get better rest.
If you aren’t getting enough quality sleep on a consistent basis, you’re likely increasing your risk for diabetes, poor mental health and other health issues.
Adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night for optimal health, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society. Routinely hitting this target could help you feel better.
Don’t overlook your mental health.
Aim for a more positive self-image by noticing the small things you’re doing well. Try to catch your negative self-talk, then reframe your perspective.
Take time to recharge by doing things that make you happy, like connecting with friends or enjoying your favorite hobby. Remind yourself that you don’t have to be productive all the time: Self-care has value, too.
Setting specific health goals can improve your chances of follow-through and success.
If you have health or life insurance coverage questions along the way, reach out anytime.