New Year, New You by Stephanie Moir of Serene Mind Psychology

Tampa Bay Moms Group Supporter and Featured Contributor has an outstanding new post on her blog that fits with our Healthy Family Fair so well that we just had to share. Visit and follow her blog Your Serene Mind for more amazing articles and posts. 

New Year, New You 

by Stephanie Moir of Serene Mind Psychology 

This New Year do you have a resolution to be healthier, happier and to focus on the positive? Now that we are near the end of January your motivation may be dwindling. You may be starting to make excuses and prolong working out, letting negative people influence your decisions or focusing on negative events that you feel are out of your control. If you are feeling this way, you are not alone! Like many of us, you need to regain focus, set realistic goals and feel accountable. 

1. Make time for your goals: You have to plan time everyday to focus on your goals. Make a schedule for yourself and create a routine. Having a schedule will make your goals that much easier to accomplish.  

2. Set goals that are attainable and specific: Create goals that start small and that you can progress with (Ex: Walk around the block and make progress towards running a 5K). Make a list of rewards to help motivate you to complete your goals (Earn a cheat meal, a new clothing item, a glass of wine). Write down your goal details and track your progress, you will stay focused even when you feel least motivated.  

3. Share your goals with others: This will hold you accountable for your goals and success. Tell your friends and family what your goals are and ask them to help you stay on track. It will help them feel included and encourage them to give you positive feedback. Everyone needs a cheerleader!

You can make a change for yourself this year by dedicating yourself to maintaining your goals! Do not let yourself become discouraged, your great work will not go unnoticed. Keep your focus, set yourself up for success and build a great support network. 

Mrs. Stephanie was born in Lima, Peru and has a strong affinity for family values and people of various backgrounds. She received her Psychology degree, with a minor in Family, Youth and Community Sciences from the University of Florida and her master's degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. She has over six years experience counseling children, adolescents and families in the Tampa Bay area and over 10 years working with children in educational, hospital and recreational settings. 

Mrs. Stephanie is a licensed mental health counselor and has specialized training in counseling suicidal, homicidal and abused or neglected children. Learn more about Mrs. Stephanie and Serene Mind Psychology here.