By Dr. Jennifer Forney, Forney Wellness Group, LLC

How are those New Year’s health and wellness resolutions going? I have all the confidence in the world in you! Here’s hoping you’re hitting the gym with gusto. Or maybe your resolution is to stop the late-night snacking. Perhaps it’s to meet a definitive goal like losing 20 pounds.

There’s certainly a buzz in the air! 

Whatever the case – and despite my strong belief you can do it – we’re all up against an unfortunate reality. These stats will sound familiar. Roughly 92% of New Year’s resolutions fail – more than 80% of them by February.

Why? Because we’re only human. We make mistakes. We succumb to pressures. We get busy. Things get too hard. Heck, sometimes we even forget we made a resolution in the first place. But to join the 8% that achieve their New Year’s goals, there are tried-and-true strategies to harness your inner strength and break down BIG dreams into achievable milestones.

Actionable Tips for Beating the Odds with Your New Year’s Health & Wellness Resolutions

The New Year is a time for reflection, fresh starts, and setting goals to improve our health, wellness and overall happiness. At Forney Wellness Group, we want to help you beat the odds and make this year the one where your New Year’s health and wellness resolutions turn into lasting results.

Here are some practical tips and expert advice to guide your journey:

1. Start Small & Build Consistency

The allure of a BIG transformation — losing 30 pounds, running a marathon or completely overhauling your family’s diet — can be tempting. But sometimes THINKING TOO BIG sets us up for failure. It’s astonishing how many resolutions crash and burn because the mirror or scale doesn’t show enough progress in the first month!

The key to lasting change lies in starting small. Think of your resolution as a series of manageable steps rather than an all-or-nothing leap.

For instance, instead of saying, “I’ll hit the gym every day,” commit to 15 minutes of activity three times a week. Small successes build confidence and create momentum, helping you stay consistent over time.

2. Start With Why

It’s one of my favorite books by Simon Sinek: “Start With Why.” It applies to so many facets of life. Change is hard, but it gets easier when you connect your goals to something deeply meaningful. Instead of focusing on what you “should” do, explore why you want to achieve your goal.

Do you want to feel more energetic to keep up with your kids? Improve your heart health to enjoy a longer, fuller life? When your goals are tied to personal values, you’re more likely to stick with them — even on the toughest of days.

3. Create a Realistic Plan

A well-thought-out plan can be the difference between success and frustration – and failure. At Forney Wellness Group, we often remind clients that sustainable change doesn’t happen overnight. It requires preparation and intention.

Break your health and wellness goal into stages:

• Short-term: What can you accomplish in the next 30 days?
• Medium-term: Where do you want to be in three to six months?
• Long-term: What’s your ultimate vision by the end of the year?

A series of objectives toward an end goal makes progress feel achievable and keeps you motivated. 

4. Focus on Habit Formation, Not Perfection

One of my clients hates cardio. She’s smart and understands it’s a necessary part of her exercise routine, but there are days she just can’t keep up with it. On those days, I’ve recommended she just do 2 minutes of cardio. 

Repeatedly doing that creates a healthy habit. It’s not perfection. But she’s still doing it. Remember, consistency beats perfection every time.

We are creatures of habit, and sustainable change comes from replacing old patterns with healthier ones. Instead of striving for perfection, build routines that align with your goals. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier, start with one meal a day. Swap a sugary breakfast for a protein-packed smoothie. Once that feels natural, build from there. 

5. Don’t Go It Alone

One of the most powerful tools for achieving your health goals is accountability. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a supportive family member or a professional, having a cheerleader makes all the difference.

We specialize in helping clients create personalized wellness plans, providing expert guidance to navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Our holistic approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way — because you don’t have to tackle your health goals alone.

6. Celebrate Small Wins

Change is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate the small victories while working toward your New Year’s health and wellness resolutions. They’re proof you’re moving forward. Did you cook a healthy dinner instead of ordering takeout? Show up for a workout even when you didn’t feel like it? 

Those moments matter and deserve recognition.

7. Be Patient with Yourself

Real, meaningful change takes time. There will be setbacks, but they don’t define your progress on your health and wellness journey. Above all else, be kind to yourself.

When challenges arise, remind yourself why you started and refocus on the next step. Every effort counts, and every step brings you closer to your goal.

Partner with Forney Wellness Group for Health & Wellness Success

At Forney Wellness Group, we understand that health and wellness are personal journeys. No two journeys are ever the same. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, learn healthy recipes, reduce stress or build a rock-solid exercise routine, I’m here to guide you. I offer tailored advice and ongoing support, ensuring your New Year’s health and wellness resolutions are more than just a fleeting wish.

This year, let’s work together to turn your goals into a reality. There’s no better time than the present. Reach out to Forney Wellness Group today for A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION, or email me directly at [email protected] and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you. 

Let’s make 2025 your best year yet!