We know that making healthy choices can help us feel better and live longer but creating new habits is not always easy. The goal is to focus on you and settle on the habits you would like to make. There are many habits to consider like waking up early, focusing on the positives, workout 3 times per week and drinking more water. These are all great habits but remember habits will take time to create or change. Do not try to change too much too fast. To improve your success, focus on one goal or change at a time. As new healthy behaviors become a habit, try to add another goal that works towards the overall change you’re striving for.
Here are a few short tips to help you stay focused on making healthier lifestyle changes become part of your every day routine.
- START SIMPLE
- Don’t try to implement everything at once. Start with 1 or 2 habits you would really like to begin doing.
- Try tracking habits that you already have in place to get used to tracking. Then slowly incorporate others you would like to be more consistent with (ex: make the bed, brush teeth).
- MAKE IT DAILY
- Aim to perform tasks daily to get your mind and body used to doing them more often.
- COMMIT TO IT FOR 30 DAYS
- It takes about 3-4 weeks to make something a habit in your everyday routine. If you can make it through, it will be easier to sustain.
- SET REMINDERS
- Whether it’s a daily phone alarm, post-it note on the mirror/fridge/door, writing it on a calendar or in a planner, or using an electronic calendar, reminding ourselves to do things will allow us to make sure we get them done.
- FIND A BUDDY
- Find a friend, family member, or support group (online or in person) to go along with you and support you along the way. This will be essential for times that are challenging. Changing our habits is a journey; there will be bumps along the way!
- KNOW THE BENEFITS
- Write down the benefits that will result from making a new habit. Notice changes in energy levels, mood, or your body.
- Also know the pain and that there will be ups and downs. But remind yourself of what might happen if the change does not occur, this can be used as motivation!
- DO IT FOR YOU
- Make habits toward YOUR goals and the things that motivate YOU. Take it back to Step 1 and keep it simple. Start small and work your way up!
- REMEMBER TO STAY CONSISTENT
- The more consistent you are, the more likely the habit will stick.
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