New Year's Resolutions
- Lorna Fedelem, MD
- Dec 29, 2025
- 3 min read
A sustainable approach
Do you treat the New Year like a personal health seminar, a moment to reassess your habits and redesign the “new you?” I used to do exactly that—scribbling down grand plans for self-improvement and imagining how much better I’d feel once I transformed everything at once. My list included exercising daily, losing weight, cutting back on eating out, reading more, and swearing off sugar. I loved the idea of a perfected version of myself, yet most years I barely made it past week two. I later learned I wasn’t alone: Forbes reports that only about 8% of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions. Alas, I was among the 92%!
Instead of tackling huge, overwhelming resolutions, consider a gentler, more sustainable approach. Below are fifteen wellness tips to help you jump-start your health goals for the New Year and beyond.
1. Set an attainable goal and create a simple plan.
Lofty, drastic goals often guarantee frustration. Choose something realistic and break it into small, manageable steps. Consistency, not intensity, leads to long-term success.
CLEAN EATING
2. Add more fruits and vegetables to each meal.
A colorful, plant-forward diet is linked to longevity and disease prevention. The more vibrant your plate, the better your body functions.
3. Keep healthy snacks within reach.
If wholesome options are available, you’re far less tempted by sugary or salty alternatives. Avoid buying unhealthy snacks altogether so you won’t have to battle willpower later.
4. Aim for 60 ounces of water a day.
Hydration boosts energy, flushes toxins, improves skin, and supports immunity. If plain water isn’t appealing, try infusions or herbal teas.
5. Start your morning with a warm, hydrating drink.
Warm water with lemon is soothing and helps alkalinize the body. Coffee is fine too—just avoid turning it into a sugar-loaded dessert. Gradually reduce sweeteners and allow your taste buds to adjust.
NON-TOXIC LIVING
6. Reevaluate your beauty products and switch to cleaner options as you run out.
Look for skincare that supports healthy aging and ingredients like peptides that encourage collagen renewal.
7. Choose natural household cleaners.
Simple staples like vinegar, water, and baking soda clean effectively without harsh chemicals.
8. Repurpose lemons as cleaning sponges.
After your morning lemon water, toss the peels in the sink and use them to freshen and scrub surfaces gently.
ACTIVE LIVING
9. Be active every day.
Aim for at least 30 minutes, even in short bursts throughout the day. Daily walking alone has significant health benefits.
10. Find a workout buddy.
Exercising with a partner adds accountability, motivation, and fun—even if you connect by phone from different locations.
11. Set a measurable goal each month.
Short-term challenges—like enjoying homemade smoothies for 30 days or skipping packaged snacks—feel manageable and build momentum.
MINDFUL LIVING
12. Meditate for 10 minutes in the morning.
Guided apps such as Headspace, Insight Timer, or Calm make it easy to begin.
13. Create a personal recharge space.
Whether you pray, reflect, or journal, carve out a few calm minutes each day.
14. Develop a personal power phrase.
Positive affirmations can shift mindset and interrupt negative thoughts. Choose something uplifting that resonates with you.
15. Prioritize quality sleep.
Rest allows your body to repair and reset. Even small improvements in sleep habits can lead to a healthier you.
Above all, be kind—to yourself and to others. Kindness truly transforms wellbeing, one small moment at a time.
Call and schedule a complimentary meet
and greet with Dr. Fedelem.
9150 Galleria Ct., Suite 200, Naples, FL 34109
LornaFedelemMD.com | 239.580.6390
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