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New Year's resolutions: Four keys to staying motivated

by CHRISTIE JOHNSON / KING 5 News

Bio | Email | Follow: @cjohnsonking5

KING5.com

Posted on January 2, 2012 at 12:28 PM

Many people made New Year's resolutions this weekend but very few will still be on track come the end of January.  Personal trainer, Brent Dawson of the YMCA, says that there are four keys to staying motivated.
 
1. Make your goal in 21-day chunks. Saying "I will work out consistently for the next twenty-one days" is less daunting than thinking about the entire year.
 
2. Keep it realistic. Goals should be specific, measureable, attainable, realistic and time framed (S.M.A.R.T.).
 
3. Find an accountability partner. Having someone to keep you accountable and honest will make it easier to stay on track.
 
4. Reward yourself.  When you hit targets or mini-goals along the way, give yourself a reward as a way to stay motivated. 
 
When it comes to fitness goals, fitness instructor Rich Bennett also advocates finding something you like to do.
 
"Enjoying what you are doing makes it easier to stick to," said Bennett.
 
According to trainers, a new habit takes three weeks to form and just five days to break.

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