New Year’s Resolutions: Why Realistic Goals and God’s Wisdom Matter

As the new year begins, many of us are inspired to set resolutions related to health—whether to lose weight, improve our health in some way, or make better lifestyle choices. However, if you’re like most people, you may find that resolutions often fail. Why? One main reason is that many resolutions are made hastily, without proper reflection, planning, or support. They arise from good desires, but that is where they often end.

This year, I want to encourage you to approach resolutions differently. Let’s explore how setting realistic goals, understanding your motivations, seeking God’s wisdom, and getting support can help you achieve lasting change.

Why Resolutions Fail

Dr. Warren Holleman, Director of MD Anderson’s Faculty Health and Well-Being Program, emphasizes that achieving lifestyle changes requires self-understanding, skills, strategies, and support. Even a seemingly simple goal like losing weight involves a complex process that starts with honest reflection.

Before committing to a resolution, ask yourself:

• Why do I want to make this change?

• What challenges or ambivalence might I face?

• Why do I engage in habits that are counterproductive to my goals?

• What positive role do these habits (e.g., comfort foods or inactivity) play in my life, and how can I replace them with healthier alternatives?

By thoughtfully answering these questions, you’ll not only better understand yourself but also avoid the cycle of premature resolutions that lead to failure and shame.

The Power of Incremental Goals

Big goals can be overwhelming, but breaking them into smaller, incremental steps makes them manageable. For example, instead of declaring, “I’ll lose 50 pounds this year,” start with, “I’ll lose five pounds this month by eliminating soda and walking three times a week.”

By the end of the year, these smaller goals can add up to significant progress. Success builds on success, creating a sense of accomplishment and momentum.

A Spiritual Perspective on Change

As Christians, we know that true, lasting, and good transformation begins with God. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and seek His wisdom in all we do. As you set your goals, take time to humbly pray, learn what the Bible teaches about life, respect and honor nature as God made it, work with his design, and seek wise counsel. Invite God into your journey of change.

As James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.“ This is a promise from God for believers in Christ who are seeking his glory in even the smallest things. When we seek His guidance and align our goals with His glory and purpose for our lives, it ensures that our efforts are eternally and temporally meaningful and will be blessed by God no matter how “successful” they appear. The success is in a life lived well, step by step, to His glory.

A Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

At Re:Generations, I encourage patients to pursue whole-person wellness—physical, lifestyle, relational, and spiritual. About 45% of Americans will have a goal of changing their diet and losing weight this January, but most Americans will end up gaining a few pounds this year. Let me give you some simple but profound advice for those seeking to lose weight or improve their health. I recommend a layered approach to dietary change:

1. Whole foods first: Prioritize nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods. Eat only when hungry.

2. Eliminate the unnecessary: Cut back on excess carbs, calories, and low-nutrient foods. Prioritize whole food protein.

3. Consider ketogenic: A well-formulated ketogenic diet can aid in metabolic health, reverse diabetes, and get you to a normal weight without starving.

4. Explore carnivore: For those ready for a complete reset, try a simpler and stricter plan: a carnivore diet. Then transition in the long run back up to level 2 or 3 to maintain health.

I’m always happy to discuss these options and help you determine what approach fits your unique needs and goals. We also have expert tools (apps and monitoring equipment) that can be utilized as desired.

We’re Here For You

Change is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our direct-to-patient primary care and metabolic health clinic provides a supportive environment where you can work toward your goals with clinical expertise, accountability, and encouragement. Established patients can text me their goals and preferred check-in frequency (weekly, monthly, quarterly), and together we’ll track progress throughout the year. Use my medical cell number.

Let this be the year you approach resolutions with humble prayer, renewed purpose, and a wise plan. With God’s wisdom and the right support, you can achieve the lasting change you desire.

For more information, contact us today.