5/22/2018

Top tips for making lasting positive lifestyle changes


Do you usually begin the week looking to start out on a new, fresh foot, but worry that you will soon slip back into your old ways? Often we start with the very best intentions, but the force of our bad habits and a lack of dedication means that you may soon fail before you have even begun. So, if you are sick of letting your good intentions fall by the wayside, then now is your chance to make a change in your life that will last. From getting your health back on track to losing a few pounds or finally paying attention to your mental health or career, then be sure to keep these top tips in mind if you want to make a lasting difference.

Firstly, if you are looking to make a positive and lasting change in your life, then you need to be realistic and tactical in your approach. As harsh as it may sound, if you have any friends that drag you down or make you feel negative, then it could be time to leave these individuals behind so that you can begin to focus on yourself. Make sure that you are realistic in your approach also, as you cannot make changes to all aspects of your life. Be sure to draw up a list and work out where you want to start. Whatever you decide, remember that by starting small and working up, you are more likely to stick to your new good intentions, and your efforts will feel less forced.

Diet
If you are feeling lethargic or worry about your weight and mood, then it could be time for you to review your diet and eating habits. One way to do so effectively is to keep a food diary and track how much sugar, salt and calories that you eat on a daily basis. If you eat out a lot, then you could be eating less healthy than you might believe. If you can eat whatever you like, but you never gain any weight, then you could be at risk without realizing the other risks. Take time to book in with your doctor or a nutritionist to discuss your diet, and check that your weight and waistline is not putting you at a heightened risk of other long-term illnesses, such as diabetes or cancer. Once you have visited a health professional, you can be sure that you will know which parts of your diet will need the most attention. Whether you are trying to bulk up or slim down, then be sure to load up your plate with lots of fresh and seasonal fruit and vegetables and try to cut down the amount of red meat that you eat. Pay attention to your diet and not only will your waistline benefit, but you may also notice a change in your mood and attention span also.

Get moving
Even if you do not like working out, getting active and making a few changes to the amount that you move will have lasting benefits to your overall diet and lifestyle. You can begin by making a few positive changes to your daily routine, such as leaving your car at home and walking to the office or your workplace. If you already love working out but feel that your routine is stuck in a rut, then why not try experimenting with different classes or taking your buddy to the gym with you? Now that the weather is getting warmer, you could even take your workout outside, such as enjoying a cycle after work or hiking in your local, national park. Why not pack a picnic and get your entire family involved? Exercise is the ideal way to boost your mood, and help your body to produce more endorphins or happy hormones, with a lasting benefit for your entire organism. Whether you are looking to feel better about yourself, increase your muscle tone or even slim down, be sure to consider upping your exercise levels if you want to reap the overall benefits and make a lasting change that will have a positive impact on your overall health.

Mindset and mental health
Finally, if you are looking to make positive lifestyle changes, then you also need to make sure that you include your mindset and mental health in your overall plans. Make sure that you check in with your mental health, as if you are feeling a bit down and upset, then this could lead to longer-term issues in relation to stress and anxiety, or worse, depression. Take time to reconsider your mindset, and be sure to slow down and ensure that you have time for yourself, such as doing a Yoga or Pilates class so that you can stretch out your body and relax your mind. You may also want to consider trying out meditation so that you can take some time during your day to reset your thoughts and take time to connect with your breathing and your body. You may also want to consider trying out mindfulness, helping you to focus on the here and now, rather than worrying about the future. It is important and essential for your overall well being and lifestyle to attend to your mental health needs.

If you are looking to make lasting and positive lifestyle changes, then be sure that you start small and remain focused on your goals. Take the time to review and address your diet and consider what you are eating on a daily basis. Shape up your workout regime, try brand new activities which you may not have thought about before, so that you do not get bored and reach your fitness goals. Finally, take time to address your mindset and check in with your mental health also. Remember why you are looking to make a change for the better and be sure to stay positive and on track. You will soon feel like your new positive lifestyle is easy and enjoyable to maintain, meaning that you are less likely to fall back into bad habits or negativity. 

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