why weight loss shouldn't be your new year's resolution
as we step into a new year, it’s common to feel the pressure to set resolutions—and weight loss often tops the list. but this resolution might not be the healthiest choice for your body or mind. here’s why shifting the focus away from weight loss and toward building sustainable habits is a more empowering way to start the year.
weight fluctuations are normal
university is a time of significant change. from navigating cafeteria food or cooking for yourself for the first time, it’s normal for your weight to fluctuate as you develop your own habits and routines. your body is adapting to this new stage of life, and that’s okay.
instead of fixating on the scale, consider how your habits make you feel. are you energized? sleeping well? managing stress effectively? these are better indicators of overall health than any number.
food is not “good” or “bad”
we’ve all heard it before—“this is good for you,” or “stay away from that.” attaching moral values to food can create a sense of shame or guilt, leading to unhealthy relationships with eating. food is meant to nourish your body and bring joy. yes, even the pizza at your 1 a.m. study session has a place in a balanced life.
rather than labelling foods, try practicing mindfulness around eating. listen to your body’s hunger cues, and enjoy your meals without judgment. developing a neutral, intuitive approach to food is far healthier than restricting yourself or feeling guilty about your choices.
healthy habits matter more than weight
recent literature has suggested that engaging in healthy behaviours is more important for long-term health outcomes than the number on the scale. regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, limiting alcohol use and abstaining from smoking can all contribute to your well-being, regardless of your size.
focusing on habits instead of weight also fosters a more positive mindset. when you view health as a collection of practices rather than an end goal tied to appearance, it becomes about what you can do for your body rather than what you’re trying to change about it.
tips for building healthy habits
- start small: choose one habit to focus on, such as adding a vegetable to each meal or going for a 10-minute walk daily. small changes are more sustainable and less overwhelming.
- prioritize sleep: aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. rest is critical for physical and mental health.
- stay active: find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or playing intramural sports. movement should be fun, not a chore.
- hydrate: keep a water bottle with you and aim to drink water consistently throughout the day.
- plan ahead: meal prepping or having quick, nutritious snacks on hand can make balanced eating easier.
enjoy the university experience—without remorse
university life is full of experiences you’ll cherish forever— nights out with friends, dorm room movie marathons, and pulling all-nighters with classmates. these moments are about connection and joy, not calories. allow yourself to fully participate in these experiences without guilt.
when you focus on building habits that make you feel good, both physically and mentally, you’ll find that health becomes less about restrictions and more about living fully. so this year, let’s ditch the weight-loss resolutions and embrace a more holistic approach to well-being.
-lindsey wachter, r. kin, health promoter
