By Cydne Marckmann, Sound Family Medicine ARNP

"We must not, in trying to think about how we can make a big difference, ignore the small daily differences we can make which, over time, add up to big differences that we often cannot foresee."
- Marian Wright Edelman

The journey of a resolution begins with one step. Often losing weight, exercising, quitting smoking or any other major life changes are overwhelming when first starting. Breaking the changes into smaller, more manageable goals are key being successful. Take losing weight, for instance. Instead of getting up on Monday morning proclaiming you are going to start a new diet and need to lose 30 pounds, set a smaller goal such as today I am going to eat only foods that are healthy for me and drink more water. The next day, continue the previous day's habit and add a goal of a two-pound weight loss for the entire week. Continue to add on life changes daily or weekly and each day will become easier so that before you know it, you will be at your goal! Additionally, with any new life change, don't consider yourself a "failure" if you have a relapse. Remember tomorrow is a new day. Forgive yourself, get back on track and keep moving in the direction you want to be. Remember, the biggest step in making life changes is the first one. Good luck!