January 7, 2024: Start Living Healthy
My weekly Get Your Stuff Together Sunday email series gives you one actionable focus for the week that will make your life a little easier.
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It’s that time again. The start of a new year. This is your year. You’re going to finally make a change and stick to that resolution, right? No, forget the resolutions. It’s time to start being realistic and make an actual change instead of resolving to making a change that never happens. This week, we’re going to talk about making a healthy lifestyle change the right way.
What do you mean no resolutions?!
Okay, I know that worries you. Resolutions are so inflexible, and they make us feel trapped more than motivated. We’re going with goals instead. Goals are flexible and meant to be adjusted as you get more information. Small difference, big results.
Here’s the game plan
First, you must find your reason why. Why do you want to be healthier, more energetic, more toned, more of what makes you great? Your reason why has to be important enough to you that you finally make a change. Your reason why is the most motivating part of beginning this journey. You’ll have to remind yourself during the tough times when you don’t want to wake up or when you want to overindulge or when you want to put it to the back burner - this is why I’m doing this.
Second, you need a plan in place. Think small though. Don’t try to completely change overnight. Making a drastic change is one of the biggest reasons people fail (remember the resolution vs. goals thing?). Instead, start introducing changes little by little. Waking up earlier to take a 30-minute walk, preparing your meals ahead of time, planning your grocery shopping, limiting sugar, drinking more water. Small steps help create lasting change. Plus, going full steam ahead can increase your risk of burnout or even injury. If that happens, you’ll lose motivation to continue on the path.
Third, find a support system. If you and your best friend or spouse have been talking about making a change forever, encourage them to do it with you. Post about it online. Social media is a great platform to let everyone in your circle (and sometimes beyond) know that you are committed to making a change. There are tons of accountability Facebook groups you can join. You can even make your own accountability group. You could also get a great health coach (hint hint). Relating to people and being able to talk about your success or failures is a great way to get insight and reminders that not everyone is perfect. A lifestyle change takes a lifetime. It’s not a quick fix.
Fourth, find something you enjoy. This doesn’t just apply to your workout routine. If the thought of chia pudding makes you gag, don’t force yourself to eat it. Explore different foods, exercises, and even daily routines to find what works for you. It may take a while to find out what it is you like to do, but once you do, you’ll be happier in the long run. You won’t dread working out, because you actually enjoy lifting, or cycling, or HIIT circuits. And when you enjoy what you eat, you’ll look forward to making those meals, and it’s easier to keep making those healthy choices. Remember - don’t make it so hard!
Fifth, set realistic goals. If your goal is to lose weight, don’t set a goal of losing 50 pounds in a month. You’ll be disappointed when you don’t hit that goal and your motivation will waver. Instead set a goal of losing ten pounds a month for 5 months. That’s a more realistic goal and when you hit it, the excitement of hitting that goal will propel you to continue pushing.
Finally, celebrate your success. Any success is a reason to celebrate. If you’re finally able to run that mile without stopping, brag about it! Put it on social media; your supporters will cheer you on and the positive feedback will keep you in the game. When you hit the big goals, treat yourself! Buy a new pair of running shoes, invest in a good pair of headphones, get a massage, buy a new outfit. Whatever it is that makes you happy, set those goals, and when you hit them, make it a point to celebrate. Your continued success will only make it that much easier to hit the next goal.
Making a lifestyle change is hard. But with the right mindset, plan, and support system, you’ll set yourself up for success. Make this year the year of you, but better!
Next Sunday, we’ll talk about tips to navigate through the grocery store while keeping your eyes on the prize - your success.
Want some expert help with reaching your health goals painlessly? Check out my programs! We’ll get everything taken care of in a way that fits into your current lifestyle so you never have to think about your health again. Love reading? I have books, too. Check out my books!
Do you have a friend who could stand to G(her)ST? Feel free to forward this!
I hope you have a wonderful week,
Kelly
My weekly GYSTS email give you one actionable thing to do for the week that will make you life a little easier. As "they" say, "Fail to plan; plan to fail." Get these emails (and more!) delivered right to your inbox by clicking HERE.