Health Goals: Go Beyond the Expected

Are you feeling the urge to improve your health in new ways?

Whether you’ve made some New Year’s resolutions or would rather set goals as they become important, your journey to better health starts with knowing how to motivate yourself in realistic ways that fit your lifestyle and personality.

Here are some ideas for making healthy lifestyle choices, no matter when you want to start!

Exercise your body and your principles.

Train for a fitness event that raises money for a cause you care about, like ending multiple sclerosis or supporting people without homes.

Reward yourself with a treat for good sleep. If you need more rest but tend to stay up late, reward yourself the next morning when you go to bed on time. Even little treats, like a  make your mind feel great!

Automate delivery of healthy food. Make it easier to eat more fiber and lean protein by get prepared meals sent to your house weekly so you don’t eat frozen dinners every night. There are a host of options for delivery of complete meals, or a standard grocery list of healthy ingredients.

Set up monthly friend dates. Strong social connections are important for mental health! Avoid isolation by committing to see friends well in advance, instead of letting life’s demands fill your calendar first.

Rehab an injury or weakness. Doing too much of the same thing can lead to overuse injuries and underdeveloped muscles. Work with a physical therapist or join an online program to target what’s holding you back.

Work to get off long-term medication. Some people don’t want to rely on drugs like statins, insulin or antihypertensives. If this motivates you, talk to a doctor about food and activity changes that could help you safely achieve your goal.

Expect setbacks, and have a plan to overcome them. Illness, travel and other disruptions will throw your plans off track. Make a list of how you’ll overcome these obstacles when they arise. If you’re prepared when they happen, you can get back on track sooner.