At this time of year, we often promise ourselves that we’ll make healthy lifestyle changes. Sometimes, change can be hard! A common reason for not making these changes stick is because it’s just difficult to stay motivated when messages and choices all around us support unhealthy options.
Part of the problem may be that more often than not, the changes we aim for are too BIG. Was one of your New Year’s resolutions to start training for a marathon? Or to stop eating sweets altogether? If this was you and you are still meeting your goal, great job! But, chances are you’ve probably abandoned these lofty goals quickly. This is because these resolutions involve HUGE lifestyle changes. We often decide it’s not worth the pain once we pursue such a huge change.
So how can we keep up the motivation? Make SMALL changes! Small changes are much more likely to be well-received by both your mind and your body. Maybe a marathon is a bit too much, but perhaps you could start by going for a brisk walk at least twice a week. Instead of saying goodbye to sweets altogether, how about starting by drinking water instead of juice or pop? Do what you can to make those changes work for you. If you can successfully maintain these small changes, over time you can eventually work your way up, adding in one small change at a time, and it won’t seem so daunting! Focus on consistency, not intensity.
It’s also important to make your change fun! The more fun you have, the more motivated you will be! Try getting together with a friend on the weekend to prepare a few healthy lunches for the week. If your goal is to be more active, make a great playlist to listen to during walks or workouts, or plan to go on daily walks with a co-worker during your coffee break.
For more inspiration and motivation, join our “Small Changes Today, Healthier You Tomorrow” photo contest on Facebook and show us the small, achievable changes you have made for a chance to win a fitness tracker and other great prizes. It’s all part of our Are you in? Healthy lifestyle campaign.
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. You’re worth it!
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