The great thing about deciding to make a lifestyle change with fitness is that you can start NOW, regardless of where you may be in life. Here are some tips to help you with that lifestyle change.
Make the Decision
The most important thing you can do is to decide to make a change and commit to your decision. So many people say they want to make a change but when it comes down to it, there is very little action. Make the decision as to which fitness program best suits your personal goals and stick with that program to maximize your results.
Keep a Positive Outlook
Becoming a healthier version of yourself is not going to happen overnight. Remaining positive when it comes to the way you view your progress and your overall outlook is really going to set you up for success. When you think positively and really believe that you are on your way to a healthier lifestyle, your body will begin to respond to those thoughts. You will achieve your goal.
Meal Prep
Plan out your meals for the week and stock your fridge with healthy foods. Life and nutrition is all about balance. If you are going to allow yourself a cheat day, be sure not to get caught up feeling guilty. Remember, this is not a diet. This is a lifestyle change.
Reward Yourself
Remember you are on a journey. Each day, celebrate your small victories. Each time you say no to that slice of cake in your work cafeteria or decline going out to eat and choose to eat the packed lunch you brought instead, give yourself a nice pat on the back and remember that accomplished feeling. The rewards will come when you can suddenly fit into those pants you have had hanging in the closet for years or being able to run up stairs you never imagined doing before.
Have Fun
Try out new recipes and experiment with different types of foods. For your workouts, find something that you really enjoy doing. Grab a friend and explore the outdoor areas around you. Find a new hiking trail, a peaceful lake, or take your dog to the park and walk around. Trying new activities and keeping the change in lifestyle fresh can keep your mind engaged to staying fit. When you are having fun with an activity that does not feel like working out, you are more likely to stick with it.
And lastly, if you want to make a change in your life— whether it’s losing weight or eating healthy—you need to surround yourself with people who support you and with an environment that is going to help you achieve your goals. Maybe a fresh coat of bright paint in your workout room will help to motivate you or maybe that new workout video you have wanted to try. Write notes on your mirror in the morning of your daily goals and affirmations. Get a new workout outfit or a good pair of running shoes if that is what will keep you motivated.
You will start to notice that making a healthy lifestyle change will not only have a positive impact on yourself but it will also have a positive impact on those around you, inspiring them to make a change as well.
