Many of us use January 1st as a starting date for a resolution that results in a better “you”. We eat better, we exercise, swear less or read more. Why limit yourself? Consider adding “floss more” or “bush at night” to your resolutions! It’s important to make every goal a realistic one so that it lasts ALL year. Here are some tips to help you with those goals:
Be honest with yourself. You are the only one who knows what you can be successful at. If this means you will increase your flossing frequency to 1x weekly and succeed at that, then this should be your starting goal! Focus a short period of time on a small, attainable goal.
Don’t stop moving forward with your goal. If at the end of a 2 month time you have succeeded at flossing 1x weekly, increase that goal to 2 or 3 times weekly. Focus on that goal for another 2-3 months. Once you have created a routine of that, then increase it again while keeping in mind that your ultimate goal is to floss daily.
Set reminders and notes of encouragement. Sometimes we don’t follow through with our goals simply because we just forget! Set a reminder on your smart phone, in your e-mail or even leave notes on your bathroom mirror. It is helpful to have a schedule for this to keep you on track. Remind yourself every Wednesday and Friday (or any other days you choose).
The key to starting small and increasing slowly is to stay honest and stay positive. You don’t start sprinting when you’re going to run a marathon, right? So don’t start too fast with an un-realistic goal that you need to last your lifetime! Your teeth and your dental hygienist will thank you!