Beyond Resolutions: A Holistic Approach to Crafting Your Healthiest Year Yet
Where do I begin to tackle health goals for 2024?
Welcome to the Extraordinary Health Podcast! Today, Dr. Victoria Lau and Dr. Paul Bekkum joins forces to guide you on your health journey as we approach the year 2024. In this episode, they delve into the importance of setting clear health goals, finding your "why," and staying accountable. Let's dive into the key takeaways.
Setting the Foundation: Health as a Lifestyle
The hosts emphasize that health is not just a goal; it's a way of living. Your lifestyle, daily habits, relationships, and nutrition all contribute to your overall well-being. Dr. Lau and Dr. Bekkum discusses the significance of creating clear goals and the various tools, including office resources they have at All Seasons Integrative Health to guide you on your health journey.
Clarifying Your "Why"
A crucial starting point for any health journey is understanding your motivation. Dr. Lau shares insights from conversations with friends who highlighted the importance of clarifying why they want to embark on a health journey. Whether it's for personal well-being, family, or other reasons, defining your "why" sets the stage for success. Defining your why will get you through the tough times when you don't want to do what you need to do!
Visualization and Accountability
The hosts stress the importance of visualizing your goals and keeping them at the forefront of your mind. Dr. Bekkum shares his personal practice of writing down big goals and placing them in a visible location. They explore different strategies, from alarms on your phone to daily reminders, to help you stay focused.
Prioritizing Self-Care
Dr. Bekkum draws attention to the often-neglected aspect of self-care, emphasizing the analogy of putting on your oxygen mask first before helping others on a plane. Prioritizing your health ensures you can be your best self for those around you. The hosts discuss how priorities can sometimes become blurry, especially for parents, and the importance of regaining focus on self-care.
The SMART Approach to Goal Setting
Delving into the nitty-gritty of goal setting, Dr. Lau introduces the SMART approach—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. They discuss the significance of being specific about your goals and highlight the importance of accountability partners in achieving them. Let people know your goals so they can help you achieve them! You may just inspire someone else to embark on something life changing!
Identifying Obstacles and Removing Setbacks
Addressing potential setbacks, the hosts stress the importance of being conscious of obstacles and finding ways to remove them. Practical examples include purging unhealthy foods from your home and creating a supportive environment for your health goals. Dr. Bekkum emphasizes the need to walk through your day and identify potential challenges.
The Role of Accountability Partners
The hosts underscore the role of accountability partners in achieving health goals. Whether it's a friend, spouse, or healthcare professional, having someone to share your journey with can significantly impact your success. Dr. Lau and Dr. Bekkum discusses the benefits of external support and the unique perspective a healthcare professional can offer.
Utilizing Data and Technology
With the abundance of health-tracking devices, the hosts encourage listeners to leverage technology for self-improvement. From interpreting data from fitness devices to understanding sleep patterns, they emphasize the role of healthcare professionals in guiding individuals through the process.
Overcoming Setbacks and Learning
Dr. Beckham shares insights on dealing with setbacks, emphasizing that setbacks are part of the learning process. They discuss the importance of self-discipline, persistence, and the willingness to adapt. Dr. Lau adds that every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Taking Action and Seeking Help
The hosts conclude by encouraging listeners to take action and seek help when needed. Whether it's filling out a health questionnaire or scheduling a consultation, they emphasize the availability of resources to support individuals on their health journeys.
Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey toward extraordinary health. For more episodes, follow us on your favorite streaming services. Until next time, stay committed to your goals, prioritize your well-being, and remember, you're either winning or learning on your health journey!
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