Why wait till the new year to do what is best for you? All too often we can put off taking those first steps to eating and living healthier lives. Not because we don’t see the value of health, not because we don’t feel bad enough, but because of “somethings” that have a way of drawing our attention away from our goals. If you’ve been following me on my personal FB page you know that I’ve had a 30 year bad habit of drinking Diet Coke. I know the side effects, feel the side effects and know what I need to do for my best interest and yet… that Diet Coke was so easy to reach for, so comfortable, and just part of what I did everyday. I would have green shakes in the morning, organic produce for lunch, and my diet coke along side all of it. It was just craziness and I knew I had to stop making excuses and just do what was best for me!
Some people do best getting rid of things gradually, not me! I have to either do it all the way or none at all. Today is day 14 to not habitually grab my diet coke every time I get in the car, or stop an put that soda in my cart as I walk by the small refrigerator at the front of the store. It’s the 14th day to make the best decision for my health!
What about you? Do you have habits that you don’t want in your life? Habits that you know aren’t best for you that you want to change? You know we can stop at any moment and change our future. Nothing locks us into doing the same old thing except us doing the same old thing… so let’s do what’s best for our health and not wait a moment longer to do what’s right!
While getting started may begin with a determined decision it must be accompanied by a steadfast call to action in order to have a lasting impact.
Here are five tips to get started making those choices that you already know are best for you!
1. Grab a notebook and paper. Write down what healthy living looks like to you. Then write down the bad habits you have that do not fit within this healthy lifestyle you’ve just jotted down.
2. What is one bad habit you have that does not fit with your idea of a healthy lifestyle? Drinking sodas? Artificial sugars? Stops at the Fast Food places? Candy? Not drinking water? Lack of exercise? and the list could go on. Take one item off that list that you are determined to see through in ridding from your life. Ask yourself, “Am I doing this for me or someone else?” No matter how honorable it might be or sound to do something for someone else you need to make these healthy choices for YOU. They must be your passion, your conviction, and your goal.
3. Make yourself accountable! Tell people what you’re doing. Let them know that failure is not an option. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you to persevere even if they are making different choices than your own.
4. Do it! Every day, day in and day out… just do it! Don’t wait, don’t make excuses, simply get started.
Here are a few blogs of friends who I find encouraging, educational, and worth the time to read.
Peak 313- Clare is a great source of encouragement no matter where you are in your journey of exercise as a daily habit.
Deliciously Organic – Carrie is a great resource for learning about organic choices and grain free options. If I remember correctly, she even has a menu service that can help take some of the work load off your shoulders.
Heavenly Homemakers – Laura has a great section of healthy living. Go to her “search categories” tab at the top of the page and then click on any of the links listed. I love the ones she has under “Healthy Eating”.
GNOWFGLINS – Wardee has an excellent site full of information, personal help, classes and recipes to help you in your journey!
