Often we tell ourselves that when we’re ready… we’ll make that long-desired change in our lives: “I’ll get back in shape after the kids go back to school” …”I’m going to go on a raw foods diet, but I have to wait until I finish the next two projects at work before I can focus on it” “After the holidays I’ll get back on the wagon”.
This kind of mentality makes perfect sense, because making a change successfully takes the right combination of energy and focus.
People who prepare themselves by getting in touch with all angles of a lifestyle change are more likely to accomplish their goals and sustain them. Asking yourself the following questions is a great way to set yourself up for success in any lifestyle change you plan to make:
Identify the benefits that you want from changing. Compare your life as it is now to the one you want. What will be better as a result?
Assess the costs of not changing. What will your life be like in a year from now if you keep going on without making this change?
Assess if you’re truly ready to make space in your life to include this new important habit you are adopting. Will this really fit into your current routine? What might you have to move aside or drop in your schedule to prioritize this goal?
Be realistic about what might get in your way. Acknowledge your traditional patterns in any given situation. Do you crawl in the door after work and flop down on the sofa into immediate comfort, instead of addressing your commitment to exercise or preparing a vibrant meal? Do you get excited about trying new food when out with friends? Acknowledge what your ‘at risk’ areas are.
Changing old habits take time, focus and energy. By assessing the areas of your life in which your changes will affect, you’ll be strengthening your commitment and ensuring success.
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