The new year is here, and millions of Americans have set goals to better themselves. But even though the ideas of eating well and exercising more often are fresh in their minds, many people let those good intentions fall by the wayside before January even comes to an end.
The problem is that many individuals don't realize that healthy habits aren't formed overnight. In fact, research by Maxwell Maltz, published in his book "Psycho-Cybernetics," stated that it takes about 21 days to develop a habit. It's all about finding ways to maintain those good actions so that they eventually become second nature.
If you've made a New Year's resolution to be your best you and make healthier decisions in 2017, don't get knocked down if you fall off track. Use these guidelines to help you manage the new habits and stay on the path to better health:
Stay in the Right Mindset
Before you follow these new habits only in search of quick results, you need to get in the right mindset. If you're more concerned with the short-term outcome - such as losing weight - than the long-term - lessening your risk of developing chronic conditions - you'll be less likely to stick to your goals due to lack of instant visual growth. Focus on bettering your overall well-being for the future, not just slimming down immediately. This mindset will keep you motivated throughout your journey.
Add Variety to Your New Habits
It's easy to get bored with a workout regimen and healthy diet if you're not switching things up regularly. You need to add variety to your life if you expect to enjoy yourself and successfully form these habits.
"Consider joining a fitness class at the gym."
To change up your workout routine, consider joining a fitness class at the gym or try working out with a friend once a week. Find another friend who is willing to share some of his or her plant-based recipes with you so you can avoid cooking the same thing over and over again. There are so many delicious meals to enjoy while you follow the Hallelujah Diet - it's all about discovering new choices and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Constantly Challenge Yourself
If you find yourself feeling less motivated, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases recommended revisiting your goals and challenging yourself in a new way. If you've been working out 25 minutes a day, five days a week, boost the amount of time and days you spend at the gym.
If you're loving the Hallelujah Diet but you want to mix things up, consider our 60 Days to Reclaim Your Health program. You'll receive personal instruction and essential information that challenges you to keep improving your health and well-being. With the help from daily food videos, weekly shopping lists, recipes and questions answered by our health experts, you'll feel more motivated than ever to stick to that New Year's resolution and form healthy habits like you've always wanted to.
