As a registered nutritional therapist, I often see women make ambitious New Year’s resolutions to improve their health, especially during perimenopause. While the intentions are fantastic, these resolutions often fail—and not because of lack of willpower. If you’ve felt frustrated with this cycle, you’re not alone. I want you to know that it is possible to create lasting, positive changes, you just need a different approach.

Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail
They’re Not Specific Enough
Resolutions like “I want to eat healthier” or “I’ll exercise more” sound good but lack clear action steps. Without a defined plan, it’s hard to track progress or know where to start.
They’re Too Restrictive
Cutting out entire food groups, skipping meals, or drastically slashing calories can backfire. During perimenopause, this approach can leave you tired, irritable, and craving the foods you’re trying to avoid.
Unrealistic Expectations
Promising yourself you’ll lose 10kg in a month or stick to a workout every single day can set you up for disappointment. These goals often clash with real-life demands and hormonal changes during perimenopause.
Too Many Changes at Once
Trying to overhaul your diet, fitness routine, and sleep schedule all at the same time is overwhelming. Without clear priorities, it’s easy to burn out and give up.
No Support System
Making lifestyle changes alone can feel isolating. Without encouragement or accountability, it’s harder to stay consistent.
The Solution: Lasting Change Takes Time
If you’ve struggled to stick to your resolutions, it’s not a sign of failure—it’s a sign that your approach might need tweaking. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
Start Small and Be Specific
Rather than saying, “I’ll eat healthier,” commit to “I’ll include 30g of protein with breakfast every day.” Small, achievable goals build momentum and confidence.
Focus on What You Can Add, Not What You Should Remove
Instead of restricting foods, think about nourishing your body. Add colourful vegetables, healthy fats, and quality protein to your meals. This approach supports hormone balance and keeps you satisfied.
Set Realistic Goals
Aim for gradual changes. For example, losing 1-2kg a month is sustainable and more manageable during perimenopause.
Embrace Consistency Over Perfection
You don’t need to follow a perfect routine to see results. Focus on doing your best most of the time, rather than aiming for 100% compliance.
Shift Your Mindset
Understand that there are no quick fixes. Sustainable change requires patience and self-compassion. Instead of focusing solely on weight loss, think about how changes improve your energy, mood, and overall health.
Find Support
Join a community of like-minded women, like my Facebook group, Kicking Perimenopause in the Arse. Having a support system makes all the difference.
A New Way to Approach Your Health in Perimenopause
When it comes to perimenopause nutrition and lifestyle changes, think about creating habits that feel good and fit into your life long-term. Forget the quick fixes and focus on finding your forever way of eating—one that supports your hormones, health, and happiness.
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