Starting Small: Healthy New Year’s Resolutions You Can Actually Keep

Can you believe it’s nearly that time of year again? Soon enough the holidays will whizz by and it’ll be a brand new year! We like to think of the new year as a chance for new beginnings, but how many times do we set new year’s resolutions, only to forget about them in a week or two? So, we decided to put together a short list of small, realistic new year’s resolutions you can actually keep in 2023. Use this list as inspiration to take small steps to live a healthier and happier life!

#1 Stay hydrated and cut down on soda

One of the easiest ways to improve your overall health is by drinking more water! Staying properly hydrated helps maximize your physical performance, can boost your mood and concentration, prevents headaches and constipation, and can even help you lose weight.

How much water should you drink per day? According to the Mayo Clinic, drinking somewhere around the standard 8 glasses a day is a good start, but some people will need more or less depending on factors like exercise, environment, and overall health. A good rule of thumb? Drink water whenever you feel thirsty!

If you’re not a fan of plain water, try fruit-infused water, natural water flavoring enhancers (like MiO), or flavored sparkling water to up your fluid intake. Pro Tip: Try putting flavor enhancer in your sparkling water or seltzer for a 0-calorie soda alternative.

#2 Eat healthy on a budget

Buying healthy foods can be intimidating because they often cost more than the alternatives. But there are plenty of options for low-cost, healthy foods you can find in your grocery store. Replace chips and salty snacks with baby carrots, fresh broccoli, apples, pineapple, bananas, or unsalted nuts, and buy generic and in-season to get the best deals. Check out our blog post for more tips on eating healthy on a budget.

#3 Pick a workout routine that’s right for you

The reason why so many people don’t stick with their workout routines or stop going to the gym even after they buy a membership is that they don’t enjoy doing it. Think about what activities you actually enjoy doing. Some people aren’t comfortable going to a traditional gym, and that’s okay. There are plenty of other ways to get active. Maybe you enjoy walking around your neighborhood or local park, running on a treadmill while listening to a podcast, riding a bike, or playing a sport. Anything that can get you looking forward to your workout instead of dreading it.

#4 Practice Kindness

Put good out into the world and see how it affects your outlook. Challenge yourself to do one random act of kindness or compliment someone every day. Don’t forget to treat yourself with kindness as well. When you start to have negative self-talk, cut yourself some slack, and talk to yourself as if you would a friend. If you’re feeling ambitious, start a gratitude journal to look back on whenever you’re feeling down.

#5 Go someplace you’ve never been

Traveling can be great for your mental health and can reduce burnout, lift your mood, and lower your risk of depression. If you’re not able to travel to a new and exciting place, that’s okay! Break up the monotony by trying a new restaurant in your area, or going to a park or attraction in your city that you’ve never been to before. You’ll never know what hidden gems are right around the corner until you go explore! Check out things to do right here in New York on the I ❤️ NY site.

#6 Clear out the clutter

Another great way to lift your mood is by clearing out the clutter in your house, work environment, and car. Dr. Craig Sawchuk from the Mayo Clinic says too much clutter can increase stress and risk of depression. If you’re not someone who enjoys cleaning, he recommends making a plan, finding others to help keep you accountable, and making the process fun by putting on music or your favorite podcast while you tidy up.

#7 Go outside more

Yes, even when it’s cold. Check out our infographic on safely exercising in cold weather for tips on exercising outside in the winter. According to Healthline, spending time outdoors can boost both your physical and mental health. One study recommends spending at least 120 minutes (2 hours) outside per week, and breaking it up in small chunks can still be effective for increasing health benefits. Some of these health benefits include improved sleep and emotional well-being, mental restoration, and boosted immune function. Especially if you work at a computer all day, walking away and taking a quick walk outside can do wonders.

Best of luck with your new year’s resolutions, and remember to subscribe to the NYHW Monthly Newsletter for practical tips and resources for staying healthy all year long!