Goal Setting & Maintaining Healthy Habits in the New Year

As the New Year begins, many of us feel motivated to set goals and make positive changes. At WCHS, we believe meaningful goal setting is about creating habits that support your goals - at a pace that works for you. 

 

According to Statista, the most common New Year's resolutions for 2026 focus on health and wellness. Nearly half of Americans (48%) plan to exercise more, followed closely by saving more money (46%) and eating healthier (45%). 

 

What goals are you setting for the New Year? If you're feeling unsure, these helpful ideas below can get you started. 

 

Find Your Way to Wellness

As part of WCHS's commitment to health, our Wellness Services provide ways to stay active, connected, and engaged. These services are designed to support movement and learning throughout the year. 

  • Personal Training: Work with certified trainers to develop a personalized exercise plan that fits your goals. 
  • Recreational Sports: Enjoy fun, low-pressure sports and activities - from open gyms to seasonal community events - that help you stay moving and build connections. 
  • Fitness Classes: Participate in workouts led by trained instructors to improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. 
  • Accessible Fitness Spaces: Use the Land of Wellness walking paths, outdoor fields, volleyball court, and other amentities, plus the Whirling Thunder community pool and gym for regular activity. 

These services provide opportunities for all activity levels. It's important to make wellness something you enjoy. Whether you're looking for a fitness class or casual outdoor activity, Whirling Thunder and Land of Wellness facilities make it easy to reach those fitness goals. 

Support for Your Well-Being, All Year Long

As you think about your New Year's resolutions, caring for your mental health can help support every other goal you're working toward. WCHS's Behavioral Health Services offer support to help you build healthy habits and navigate life challenges throughout the year such as: 

Making mental health part of your resolution can help you feel more balanced, resilient, and supported as you work toward a healthier year ahead. 

Nourish Your New Year's Resolution

A healthy diet is one of the most powerful ways to support your New Year's goals - whether you want to eat better or feel more energized. WCHS Nutrition & Food Services offers a range of programs designed to help you make informed food choices and build lasting eating habits that support your overall well-being. 

  • Dietitian Consultations: Work one-one-one with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who will get to know your preferences, lifestyle, and health goals. Together you can create a nutrition plan that makes eating healthy realistic and enjoyable - perfect for achieving your new years resolution to eat better. 
  • Lifestyle Coaches: Schedule one-on-one visits designed to support healthy living in a way that fits your lifestyle. 
  • Lunch & Learn Event: Combines a healthy meal with interactive discussions on topics such as preparing quick, nutritious meals, understanding portion control, improving sleep, and finding balance—all focused on supporting overall health and well-being.
  • Senior Center Meals: Offering weekday noon meals for local seniors, along with Meals on Wheels services for seniors who are 55+ or individuals who are handicapped. 

Eating well doesn't have to be overwhelming. With expert guidance, practical cooking skills, and programs that make nutritious food accessible, can help you set smart, sustainable goals. 

As you move into the New Year, remember that lasting change doesn’t come from doing everything at once—it comes from taking small, intentional steps that support your overall well-being. Whether your goals focus on physical activity, mental health, or nutrition, WCHS is here to support you every step of the way. By choosing habits that feel realistic and enjoyable, you can build a healthier, more balanced year—one day at a time.