Tips on how to kick start lifestyle change?

You may understand exactly what you need to do to enjoy a healthier, happier life: eat healthy, exercise, avoid smoking and alcohol or find a way to ratchet down stress. There is just one hitch. You have not done it yet.

Often, the biggest hurdle is INERTIA. It is true that it isn’t easy to change ingrained HABITS. However, gradually working toward change improves the odds of success. Here are some tips that can help you enact healthy change in your life.

Tiny steps that can help you succeed:

1.Select a goal. Choose a goal that is the best fit for you and feel ATTAINABLE at present.

2.Pick your choice for change.  It is best to concentrate on just ONE CHOICE AT A TIME. When a certain change fits into your life comfortably, you can then focus on the next change.

3.Commit yourself. Make a written or verbal promise to yourself and one or two supporters you do not want to let down: your partner or child, a teacher, doctor, boss, or friends. That will encourage you to slog through tough spots.

4.Scout out easy obstacles. Maybe you would want to go for a walk but can’t imagine having the TIME to do it. Or perhaps your hopes for eating healthier run aground if your kitchen cabinets and refrigerator are not well-stocked with healthy foods.

5.Brainstorm ways to leap over obstacles. Now think about ways to overcome those roadblocks. Not enough time? How about getting up 20 minutes early for exercises and fit in a 10-minute walk before lunch. Cupboard bare of healthy choices? Think about five to 10 healthy foods you enjoy and will put them on your pantry and refrigerator.

6.Plan a simple reward. Is there a reward you might enjoy for a job well done? Go and do it. Treat yourself a simple reward.

7.Set backs. Be kind to yourself, if you have a bad day and overeat, drink to much, or fail to exercise – forgive yourself. Be positive and let it go. Allow yourself within moderation to enjoy a few indulgences. Just be sure to start back on your daily journey the next day.

Remember that change takes time. Change only happens if we work hard each day.

If you are motivated but unsure where to start, we are here to help. Give us a ring or book online and we will guide you.