5 Healthy Changes to Make Now

Larisa Anghelescu
Mar 9, 2015
2 min read

If you really want to make a change, then let's do it — together! I won't lie to you, it's not going to be easy. But believe me when I tell you it'll be worth it! I bet you've already tried it your way, so let's give my way a try.

Here are five steps to change your diet, exercise and lifestyle for the better — for good!

Change Your Mind

The first step is no sweat — literally. It's all in your head. Realize that you have the power to change your life by changing your mind-set. We all have the ability to choose our paths, reach our goals, and build exceptional lives. The challenge is in BELIEVING you can.

Get real: Look closely at how your emotions and behaviors are affecting your health. Are you feeding something besides your hunger, like your feelings?

Set Attainable Goals

What is your vision of the ultimate you? Take some time to imagine it, break it down, and then WRITE it down! To make permanent change, you'll need to set short-term and long-term goals, then create and write down your action plans to achieve them.

Reward yourself in life-affirming ways — that means no food rewards! Treat yourself to a massage for killing it at the gym all week or splurge on a new workout outfit or pair of sneakers.

Start Moving!

Exercise is the BEST way to burn calories and fat. Find out the activities that will allow you to burn the most calories. You may not be ready to run a half-marathon, but you can go for a walk or maybe even a short run.Stick with it. Set up a workout schedule and mark it on your calendar along with your most important appointments of the day — then DO it! It may not be a piece of cake (better not be!), but with the right mind-set, motivation, and support system, you CAN do this. Believe in yourself and your ability to change and you will.

Set up a Support System

You are responsible for your own success, but we all get by with a little help from our friends and family, right? That's why it's important to build a healthy support system. Share your goals and how you're planning to accomplish them. Give them the lowdown on the types of foods you're eating — and no longer eating — and your new workout schedule.

Make Healthier Choices

Restock your fridge and pantry. Since you can't eat what's not there, dump all the junk foods in your cupboards immediately. Make room for nutritious, energy-boosting fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Plan out a few go-to healthy meals too, then stock up on those ingredients, along with snack-size packages of nuts, baby carrots, and organic yogurt for when you are on the run.