How to Create Healthy Habits and Stick With Them

Every one of us has had those moments - perhaps on every New Year’s Day - where we have made a goal and were fully determined to see it through and reach our health objectives. But somewhere along the way, the goal fell apart, and we wake up realizing that we have utterly failed to achieve the resolution.

In order to avoid this unfortunate moment this year , here are some tips for creating healthy habits and actually sticking with them as time passes.

Set realistic goals

First and foremost, it is important to set realistic attainable goals when creating healthy habits that actually stick long-term.

For example, instead of making a goal to lose twenty pounds in four months, make smaller, daily goals in which you can reward yourself on a daily basis, such as adding vegetables to your meal everyday, or drinking 8 glasses of water per day . Of course, it is acceptable to have long-term goals but make the short-term goals more of your focus.

By completing small, daily goals, you can eventually create healthy habits necessary to meet your long-term goals more effortlessly.

Give yourself time

A common mistake many make after creating healthy habits that they want to begin to enforce is not understanding exactly how long it takes for a habit to develop.

The fact of the matter is it can take a while before a healthy habit truly sticks and becomes effortless for you, and developing healthy habits is not always fun. While there are moments where you are likely going to feel incredibly motivating, being able to stay patient in moments of frustration is important.

Get into a routine

After creating attainable goals and coming to terms with the reality that creating healthy habits that stick is not going to be easy or happen overnight, it is time to develop a routine that is complementary to the healthy exercise becoming a habit.

The best way to design a routine is to be very simple .Yes, that is correct - be simple . The more variety you have in your healthy habit, the more at risk you are to stray off course and abandon the short-term goals you set for yourself.

Make it fun ! Getting into a new routine and new goals aren’t always fun, but there are ways to make it fun. Find a workout buddy, get a good playlist for cleaning and try new cooking classes – anything to help you enjoy your new routine.

Decide what needs to be in your routine. Do you want to get more exercise or more alone time? Prioritizing what is important to you before starting is key!

Keep your eye on the prize

The reason achieving a goal seems so easy at the moment we create it is because we are motivated in that particular moment in time.

Unfortunately, we cannot stay motivated all of the time, and there are times when we may not feel like practicing the healthy habit. In these moments, keep your eye on the prize and push through.

Ask for support

If you feel overwhelmed or unable to meet your goals on your own, consider seeking professional help. They can offer strategies as to how to adjust your goals so that they are attainable, as well as help you change unhealthy behaviors and address emotional issues.

What are your tricks for creating healthy habits?

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