New Year’s resolution: set goals that stick!

Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement
goals

As a new year begins, many people will set resolutions to improve their health and wellbeing. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to focus on small, sustainable changes that can make a big difference—boosting energy, improving mood, and reducing the risk of chronic health conditions. 

Dr Hannah McCourt, Health Improvement Manager at PHA, said:
“January is a great time to think about what really matters for your health, but don’t feel pressured into quick fixes or fad diets – they rarely last. Instead, start small and make changes you can stick with. Even simple steps, like drinking more water or adding a short walk to your day, can have a big impact over time. Think of your goals as a journey, not a race.”

Setting realistic goals is key to success. Weight loss isn’t always the main objective – improved energy, mood, and overall health are just as important. Start by choosing two or three priorities, such as increasing your fitness, nutrition, or sleep, and focus on those. 

Hannah added:

“Making small, sustainable changes is the key to long-term success. Focus on what matters most to you – whether that’s eating better, moving more, or improving sleep and build from there. 

“Break big goals into smaller steps, like committing to one extra glass of water each day or park your car in a space further away from the shops to increase your daily steps. Avoid restrictive dieting and instead aim for balance, following an 80/20 approach where healthy choices are the norm but occasional treats are allowed.”

Planning meals in advance can help reduce the number of takeaways you eat, and increasing activity gradually is more realistic than aiming to run a 5K in your first week. Aiming for steady progress, such as losing one to two pounds of body weight per week, is a realistic goal for most people. It’s also important to remember that setbacks are normal. Social events, holidays, and busy periods happen, but they don’t have to derail your progress. Use these moments as learning opportunities and get back on track. 

Following these tips is a great way to get started on the journey to living a healthier life.

For more information on choosing healthier food options, cooking healthy recipes and getting more active, visit www.choosetolivebetter.com 

The Public Health Dietitians Group have also developed a series of explainer videos on their YouTube channel: