Tips for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions While Away From Home
At the start of each year, many of us plan to eat healthier, work out more, save money or make strides in another area of our lives. While the idea of New Year’s resolutions isn’t a new one—it dates back more than 4,000 years to the ancient Babylonians—today’s fast-paced world can make it hard to keep up with your goals. And, it can be even tougher when you’re away from home!
Whether you’re traveling for work, school, a family visit, vacation or relocation, here are some easy ways to keep your resolutions on track while staying in an extended stay hotel.
Set SMART Goals
Often used as tool for business and professional development, SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound. Using the SMART system for resolutions is a great way to get laser-focused on what you want to achieve in the new year, figure out what steps you need to take to get there, and track your progress along the way.
Once you’ve mapped out your goals, put them in an easily accessible place. If your note is handwritten, place it by the alarm clock on your nightstand or put it on the door of the refrigerator in your in-room kitchen. If it’s digital, add it to your smartphone “notes” or consider making it your screensaver on your laptop.
Tell a Friend
Swap resolution lists with a friend and connect with each other regularly to share progress via phone, email or video chat while traveling. Having an “accountability buddy” can help you stay motivated as the weeks go by. A research study conducted by Dr. Gail Matthews, a psychology professor at Dominican University of California, found that participants who sent weekly updates to friends were more likely to accomplish their goals than those who kept their goals to themselves.
Plan Ahead
Popular resolutions like exercising more and eating a healthier diet often require planning. Schedule time to commit to your exercise routine—whether it’s going for a walk, taking a fitness class or hitting the on-site gym. If your goal is to eat healthier meals, one of the best ways to do that is to buy and prepare your own food. Hotels with in-room kitchens are a simple way cook healthy dishes while on the road, and free Wi-Fi makes finding new online recipes a breeze!
Find a Hotel That Meets Your Needs
Set yourself up for success by choosing a hotel where you feel comfortable and at ease. WoodSpring Suites® hotels offer contemporary accommodations and amenities that help you live well—like in-room kitchens, free Wi-Fi, on-site laundry rooms, and fitness centers at many locations. Enjoy apartment-style living with no lease agreement or credit check required. Plus, weekly, monthly and long-stay rates can help you save money on longer visits.
