The start of a new year is a natural time to reflect on health and wellness goals. For many, this means creating resolutions focused on fitness, nutrition, and preventive care. 80% of goal-setters prioritize health and fitness in their plans for the year, but setting goals is just the first step (Saad, 2023). To truly make an impact on your well-being, it's essential to build sustainable habits and take a proactive approach to preventive care.
Why Your Health Goals Mater
Setting health goals gives direction and purpose to your wellness journey. Goals should be specific, measurable, and realistic to improve the likelihood of success. While resolutions often start strong, 43% of adults abandon their goals by the end of January (Allen, 2024). To avoid this pitfall, focus on breaking your goals into smaller, actionable steps. For instance, instead of “exercise more,” aim for “20 minutes of brisk walking, three days a week.”
Creating Habits That Stick
Habits are the building blocks that turn goals into lasting change. According to the CDC, only 24.2% of U.S. adults meet physical activity guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities (CDC, 2022). This highlights the importance of creating routines that make healthy behaviors automatic. Start small by incorporating habits like packing a healthy lunch, scheduling regular workouts, or setting reminders to drink water throughout the day. Consistency is key—repeating actions over time helps them become second nature, increasing the likelihood of sustaining healthy changes year-round.
The Power of Preventive Care
Preventive care is critical for maintaining long-term health. Research indicates that nearly 80% of chronic conditions could be avoided through healthy lifestyle choices and regular screenings (Cuffari, 2024). Scheduling routine check-ups, vaccinations, and health screenings can catch potential issues early, preventing them from escalating into major health concerns. By taking a proactive approach to health, you can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and ensure your wellness efforts yield maximum benefits.
Plan for a Healthier Year
To stay on track, make a plan that includes clear goals, daily habits, and regular appointments with your healthcare provider. At CareATC, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Ready to take charge of your health? Schedule a CareATC appointment today and start building a healthier, happier you.
References
Allen, L. (2024, November 18). New Year's Resolutions Statistics and Trends (2024). Drive Research. https://www.driveresearch.com/market-research-company-blog/new-years-resolutions-statistics/
CDC. (2022, August). Physical Activity Among Adults Aged 18 and Over: United States, 2020.https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db443.htm
Cuffari, B. (2024, July 31). Proactive Health: The Shift Towards Preventative Healthcare. Medical News. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Proactive-Health-The-Shift-Towards-Preventative-Healthcare.aspx#:~:text=Current%20estimates%20indicate%20that%20nearly,attributed%20to%20unhealthy%20lifestyle%20behaviors.
Saad, L. (2023, January 5). Seven in 10 Americans Likely to Set Goals for 2023. Gallup. https://news.gallup.com/poll/467696/seven-americans-likely-set-goals-2023.aspx
