Planning your day can be as important to your wellness as your diet. Finding experts in wellness who hold you accountable and coach you on the best-researched practices is a higher priority than your three times a week spin class. And, yes, loving yourself may be the most important factor in finding true wellness in 2021.Why wait? Join our Alexandria Wellness’ community campaign to set up 2021 goals that result in holistic wellness. Join our Virtual Small Group Fitness Sessions with a maximum of six women. Email alicia@alexandriawellness.com for more information on how you can “start your new year” now!I’ve watched this movie hundreds of times with women. A new year approaches. You start thinking about what will be different next year. You may think you want to be in a different pant size. Or you may think you want to look at yourself in the mirror after the shower and not look away. Or you may just want to improve your relationship with the most important person in your life: you.Whatever your motivation, approaching a new calendar year is a prime time to consider your wellness.

• • It is a set date: January 1 = the brain likes a specific goal for which to aim.
• • It is something many others will embrace = social support – crucial for making progress.
• • It is something for which you may even plan = the brain likes this too.

And, let’s be honest, despite the pandemic, Thanksgiving marked the beginning of the “holiday season.” We are all finding more time for celebrating with others in creative ways right now.-> Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest on our programs and how they may be helpful to you or your loved ones.  Below are five questions I encourage you to consider as you plan your wellness for 2021 and beyond.

1) Do I plan my days well?

Better planning and preparation are the keys to your wellness, and frankly, your life. Getting distracted or caught up in the rabbit hole of social media will not get you where you want to be. Be as specific as possible about what you want, what you plan to do, and when you will do it.  

2) Am I seeking the coaching and accountability from professionals who are experts in their field?

Why is it women think we know it all about how to “do this?” Is it because we are surrounded by messages from the news media, social media, and others who chatter their program “is the best?” Is it because we’ve tried everything? Then if you’ve tried everything and you are still unsatisfied, why are you going back to that well – again?You are an individual seeking excellence for you, not your friend, not others watching, or “performing” on the news or social media. Why would you subscribe to something of which you are not convinced you’ll succeed? 

3) Am I surrounding myself with others who view wellness as a top priority in their lives?

Our brain loves to be surrounded by others who crave wellness. Our brain is involved in how we think, feel, act, and how well you get along with others.  Why would you lead it in two different directions: one where you so want change and one where you are stuck in a social circle who does not share your values.Fueling ourselves with ample nutrients for our beautiful bodies and the rigorous days we ask from it can help you consume what you need to get through that day. Thinking through what you need is the tough part. Join our newsletter to learn more about how you can master this concept starting next yearIt’s harsh. Yet, it is true. Pay heed to number four below and maybe this one will feel better.  

4) Do I worry too much about what others think?

When we worry about what others think of us, it gives others more credibility in shaping who we are than they are worthy. The most important person in this life is you. You are the one who can make wellness-centric decisions, build your life around health, and reap the rewards. No other person can do that for you.Loving yourself before any other person is key to loving your body. Loving your body – for all of its strengths and challenges - will help you become a master of mindful training and living! 

5) Why am I waiting until January 1?

I am all for planning your goals for the next year thoughtfully ensuring you succeed. Yet, at some point, it is time to get rolling (Literally! Join our virtual small groups and find out how rolling will turn your core into steel! Email alicia@alexandriawellness.com).Add yourself to our email list so you can receive updates on exciting new programs we are launching next year at www.alexandriawellness.com.