Perhaps your initial goal was to lose 20 pounds, and you’re nearly there. You may need to reinvigorate your original intent with new purpose. Why does this last stretch seem never-ending? Sometimes, anticipation of future benefits isn’t enough to keep us motivated or even sustain the progress made so far. Or sip a favorite, no-sugar-added tea with your most healthful meal of the day.You’ve been making progress in adopting new, healthier habits - and you’re there … or almost. Take in a fun podcast every time you walk around the track. Pick rewards that don’t sabotage your goals. And small, immediate rewards - every time you take part in a goal behavior - have been shown to be a greater motivator than one big reward at the end.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK FREE
This could be new workout gear, a movie, manicure or massage, or a babysitter to free you up to meet with friends. Rewiring your brain to adopt better habits is an ongoing challenge.Įach time you reach a new milestone, give yourself a gift. If you hate going to the doctor, bring earbuds and your favorite music to make the waiting room time pleasant.ĭon’t neglect to reward yourself, too. Do you like to cook? Find healthy new recipes to try out on your family. The secret to maintaining the gains you’ve made is to enjoy what you’re doing. If you are becoming lax about your diabetes self-care, for instance, touch base with an informal support group - peers with diabetes, or family members or your medical team - to keep you focused on managing the disease. Words of support from your connections can steer you in a healthy direction. Posting your struggles and successes on social media might keep you in the game. Lasting change requires lasting attention. Not keeping ice cream in the freezer may have to be a forever change. Many people are successful in their first few weeks or months of behavior change but then go back to old habits. Remember that just because you met your original goal doesn’t mean you can drop all the strategies you learned. If you’ve added more vegetables to your diet, consider expanding your goal by cutting back on sugary drinks if you want to lose pounds. If you’ve met your initial goal, create new ways to succeed. Add variety to revive any routine that has become boring - for instance, mix up your workout with yoga postures or a Zumba class. Tack on a few minutes to meditate after a healthy breakfast.
Find new ways to enjoy beneficial habits so you keep it interesting. If you’re running on autopilot, your drive may be diminished. But did you know that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also prolong your life expectancy at age 50 by 12 to 14 years? The reasons for sticking to your new fitness and dietary habits have just multiplied.
You’ve been making progress in adopting new, healthier habits - and you’re there … or almost.
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