Get moving in the right direction for 2020

As the new year gets under way, it's a great time to reflect on the past 12 months while also looking ahead to 2020.

For many, the new year brings new hope, new priorities and New Year's resolutions. Setting a New Year's resolution isn't necessarily the challenge but implementing it can be. Following through to the end can sometimes be harder than expected and lead to failure.

If your resolution has anything to do with losing weight or improving your health, the following tips will help you put together a resolution that will have you moving in the right direction in 2020.

Set realistic goals.

“I want it all and I want it now” is not a practical plan for long-term weight loss success. Pick a resolution that's challenging and requires focus, but not one that burns you out in the first month. If you have a weight loss goal of 30 pounds for example, break it up into three manageable goals of 10 pounds. Give yourself adequate time, and set secondary goals along the way to keep you consistently moving forward.

Know your strengths and weaknesses.

Pick out your three strongest qualities and incorporate these into your game plan.

For example, if you're well organized, use that to your advantage by mapping out a schedule to keep you on track.

On the other hand, do your best to avoid known weaknesses. If you have no self-control around sweets, keep them out of sight. Breaking a bad habit is tough, even when you're fully committed. So, give yourself a better chance by knowing what to use and what to lose.

Have a support system.

Your New Year's resolution starts with you, but it can be supported by friends and family. If you show how important your resolution is to those around you, they will support you and motivate you along the way.

Also, by making your intentions clear to others, you will feel a sense of accountability to them. Another great option is teaming up with a friend or family member who has a similar resolution. This team effort can add much needed motivation and accountability.

Don't give up.

So it's been two months and you're not quite where you expected to be. That's OK!

As long as you're making progress and you're staying motivated, things will happen.

If it wasn't challenging, it wouldn't be as rewarding in the end. Of course your resolution is important to you, but you may have to remind yourself of why you're doing it from time to time.

Reward yourself without sabotage.

As you create your resolution, incorporate some rewards into your plan ahead of time.

If you hit your secondary goals, for example, go out to dinner at your favorite restaurant. This positive reinforcement only adds to the feeling of accomplishment and can give you a break from your routine.

But, remember not to sabotage your overall progress by going overboard with too many rewards.

With the right tools, you can be on your way to crushing your 2020 New Year's resolution. Find the motivation and get the results!

For more exercise and nutrition tips, visit us at PushFitnessTraining.com for links to our blog and social media resources.

• Joshua Steckler is the owner of Push Fitness, a personal training studio in Schaumburg specializing in weight loss, muscle toning and nutrition. Contact him at PushFitnessTraining.com.