By Karen Kier
Pharmacist on behalf of the ONU HealthWise team
In 2022, the number one New Year’s resolution was to lose weight. Other surveys found 23% wanted to live healthier, while 21% wanted personal improvement. I would not be surprised if 2023 is similar.
How likely is one to keep their resolution?
The statistics are surprisingly good. Survey data reported 75% maintain their resolution for one week with the number dropping to 64% at one month. At six months, 46% maintain their resolution. This is encouraging. Some psychologists suggest the best way to succeed is to be realistic, plan ahead, reward yourself, track your progress and do not beat yourself up.
As I read the advice, it reminded me of the 1991 comedy, What About Bob?. The movie starred Bill Murray as Bob Wiley who was a troubled patient of Dr. Leo Marvin played by Richard Dreyfus. Dr. Marvin was a psychotherapist who had finished a book called Baby Steps. Murray’s character followed Dr. Marvin on vacation and befriended his family. Dr. Marvin was invited to discuss his book on morning television and the directors invited Bob to participate. Bob stole the show with his discussion of the baby step technique, while Dr. Marvin lost control of the interview.
