New Year, New You: Goals vs Resolutions

Why I’m choosing to set goals rather than resolutions for 2018. Every year we tell ourselves “this year will be different,” but often those resolutions fade quickly. That made me pause and ask: what do I truly want to accomplish this year?

Below I share practical ways to create actionable, attainable goals and stick with them—especially as they relate to the Trim Healthy Mama approach.

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What Is a Resolution?

Dictionary.com defines a resolution as the act of resolving or determining upon an action or course of action: a firm decision to do something. A resolution is often a one-time decision to change, but without a concrete plan it can be hard to follow through.

What Is a Goal?

A goal is the measurable result or achievement toward which effort is directed. Goals are typically specific, time-bound, and broken down into manageable steps. That makes them easier to track and more likely to produce lasting change than vague resolutions.

What Does This Have to Do With My Trim Healthy Mama Journey?

We’ve all resolved at some point to follow the Trim Healthy Mama lifestyle. But what specific goals will make that resolution a reality? Turning a good intention into a consistent habit requires clear goals and daily choices.

Ask yourself: what actions will support your desired outcome? Small, consistent choices add up over time.

Why Is This So “Hard”?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that Trim Healthy Mama (THM) is only as hard as I make it. I get to choose my level of difficulty, and so do you. Each day presents choices that determine progress:

Will I eat on plan or not?
Will I use special ingredients or keep recipes simple?
Can I cultivate a positive attitude and healthy perspective? (Mindset matters.)
Will I read the plan and take part in community studies or book groups?

Goal #1 – Have a Positive Attitude & Choose My Level of “Hard” Daily

Goal #2 – Read the Trim Healthy Mama Plan Book Mindfully

What Am I Doing Wrong?

Often we assume we’re “doing it wrong” when we simply need a small adjustment. THM is flexible and personal; what works for one person may need tweaking for another. Revisiting the plan book or your notes can reveal simple fixes.

Am I building meals correctly?
Is my meal timing off?
Am I fuel stacking without realizing it?
Do I need to be more mindful about dairy or processed “frankenfoods”?

Goal #3 – Follow the Plan Mindfully as It Is Designed

Why Is She Getting Better Results Than I Am?

Comparison is tempting, but it steals joy. Instead of comparing, examine how you’re applying the plan. Ask honest questions about your habits and health:

Am I following the plan as well as I could?
Do I have health conditions or habits that affect progress?
Am I exercising consistently?
Is stress undermining my efforts?

Goal #4 – Love Myself Enough to Accept Who and Where I Am

What Are Your Goals for 2018?

We are all works in progress. It helps to lean into faith, to trust that daily strength is available, and to remember that we are wonderfully made and dearly loved. Setting compassionate, realistic goals supports long-term success.

More Personal THM Goals for 2018

Use the Trim Healthy Mama Cookbook and Trim Healthy Table when planning meals to keep variety and balance.
Find a consistent exercise routine—explore the THM work-ins or follow a gentle movement program that fits your season of life.
Make the most of kitchen tools like the Instant Pot and an air fryer to simplify meal prep and keep on plan.

In short: replace vague resolutions with specific, measurable goals. Choose a positive mindset, read and apply the plan thoughtfully, adjust where needed, and be kind to yourself along the way. Small, steady steps build lasting change—one day at a time.