The New Year is finally here! So, are you ready to make some big changes this year? Before you do, let’s make sure you’re starting off on the right track, so you can reach your goals in a healthy, productive way.

I’m not really one for resolutions – those of you who know me can attest to this. But I am dedicated to making my lifestyle work for me, to feeling healthy and energized, and not struggling day to day just to get through. I am dedicated to setting myself up for success, no matter how long it takes…

If you’re considering doing a detox (and let’s be honest, we can ALL use one from time to time!) there are a few things to consider before choosing a plan and diving in. Check out the 4 Mistakes You’re Making:

Mistake #1 – Wrong Mindset

Most detox programs set you up with huge expectations and a grueling timeline. They’re designed for people who are ready to go full speed ahead and leave little room for you to get off track. We all want to give it our best shot and get great results, but that’s not always the reality of our individual situations. Believe me, if you’re starting off with the “all or nothing” attitude, you’re setting yourself up to fail.

Mistake #2 – Lack of Strategies

Having a game plan is one thing, but have you considered all the ways you will be triggered to go back to your old ways? Our environment is full of things that will derail your efforts, and if you don’t have a plan for outsmarting those triggers, they will certainly win – and you’ll lose.

Mistake #3 – An Aggressive Approach

It’s great to be committed to doing your best and confident that you’ll succeed, but are you really able to put in the same effort as a top trainer or athlete? Of course we want to challenge ourselves a bit, but if the program you’re on is too intense, it really isn’t healthy (or productive) to follow it to the letter. Only you can decide what will work for you, and that’s OK!

Mistake #4 – No Accountability

It can be a little lonely to be the only one in your family or circle of friends to be on a detox. And if you don’t tell anyone, who will know if you fail? While that might sound like a safe strategy, it can actually work against you. Making sure that there is a reason bigger than yourself for you to show up and follow through can mean the difference between so-so results and major success.

I know how overwhelming the holidays are, with the binge-eating and binge-watching happening all over the place! And then you’re expected to reverse all that instantly in the New Year and begin with a new YOU – totally unfair! So let’s start this journey without feeling rushed or pushed to extremes. This is your process, your timeline and I’m happy to help.

Check out this week’s Wednesday Wellness Workshop to find out how to fix these common mistakes and get your mindset in a healthy, productive detox mode!