With the new year just around the corner, it’s a time for reflection and setting new ambitions and health resolutions. A recent survey of 2001 individuals in the UK sheds light on the beauty and self-care resolutions people are making for 2024, highlighting a strong focus on self-improvement.

Key Findings from the Survey

The survey, conducted by Currys, asked participants about their health priorities for the upcoming year. The results reveal the most common resolutions:

1. Losing Weight: At the forefront, with 27% of respondents aiming to shed pounds, losing weight is not just about looking good, but also about reaping health benefits like lower blood sugar and reduced stress on bones and joints.
2. Regular Exercise: Next up, 18% of participants plan to incorporate more physical activity into their routines, an essential step towards reducing risks of heart disease and stroke and enhancing mental well-being.
3. Balanced Diet: Following closely, 13% of the survey participants intend to focus on a well-balanced diet, crucial for the body’s effective functioning and repair.

The Top 10 Health Resolutions

The survey also identified the top 10 resolutions among Brits:

1. Lose weight: 26.9%
2. Exercise regularly: 18.4%
3. Eat a balanced diet: 13.2%
4. Increase physical activity: 12.6%
5. Improve sleep quality: 11.5%
6. Increase water intake: 10.2%
7. Quit smoking: 8.9%
8. Prioritize mental health: 7.8%
9. Manage stress: 7.5%
10. Reduce sugar intake: 7.0%

Expert Advice on Achieving Health Goals

Sarah Spence, a personal trainer and coach, emphasizes the importance of simple and consistent approaches to achieve these health goals. She suggests setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound) goals and focusing on positive changes rather than restrictions.

Challenges in Maintaining Resolutions

The study also highlights a common struggle: maintaining momentum in keeping these resolutions. About 15% of Brits have previously set resolutions but often revert to old habits within 1-2 weeks. The main challenges identified include lack of motivation, insufficient willpower, overly ambitious goals, and reluctance to embrace necessary changes.

Discipline Over Motivation

Sarah Spence advises that discipline, rather than motivation, is the key to long-term success. She recommends practical steps like planning, setting reminders, and accountability measures to stay on track with health goals.