Many of us think about how to make changes to improve our health. Whether exercising more, eating better, or taking steps to reduce stress levels, setting health goals can be a great way to take control of your life and make positive changes. However, it is important to set realistic, achievable goals that you can sustain long-term. Here are five tips for setting sustainable health goals for 2023.
1. Start Small
Big changes often require time and hard work to achieve. Start with small, achievable goals to build momentum and confidence as you move towards larger goals. For example, if you want to start running regularly this year, begin by making a plan that includes a few days of walking or jogging each week. Once you have established a consistent routine, you can gradually increase your distance or intensity over time.
On the same note, going from a disorganized unhealthy diet to having 3 small meals consisting of oatmeal for breakfast, a chicken salad for lunch, and fish and broccoli for dinner is unrealistic and unsustainable. If you have a sweet tooth, you can still enjoy a sweet treat. You just have to be aware of the ingredients and quantities you are consuming. Believe it or not, you can have high-protein donuts that are actually healthy.
2. Set Measurable Goals
Another tip for setting sustainable health goals is to properly define your objectives. When setting health goals, it’s important to focus on objectives that can be monitored and measured in some way. This will allow you to track your progress and adjust your plan as needed to reach your goal. For instance, if your goal is to eat more fruits and vegetables each day, set a specific target, such as “I want to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables per day,” so that you can measure your success in terms of reaching that number each day or each week.
3. Don’t Overdo It
It is important not to push yourself too hard when working towards your health goals. Sometimes people overexercise which can lead to burnout or injury. Instead, take regular breaks throughout the week to rest and recharge so that you don’t become overwhelmed or exhausted en route to your goal. Resting doesn’t mean you need to stop doing whatever you’re trying to achieve. It simply means that you should incorporate slower days where you focus on simple things like getting enough sleep or taking time to go for a walk instead of hitting the gym.
4. Create A Plan That Suits Your Lifestyle
Another tip for setting sustainable health goals is to consider your individual needs and lifestyle. For example, if you have a busy schedule and find that it’s difficult to spend time at the gym each week, consider trying other forms of exercise that can be done from home. In addition, if you find it difficult to follow specific diets, find one that fits in with the types of foods you like to eat. You can look at www.aleanlife.com to gain better insight into a lean lifestyle and how easy it is to achieve your health goals with the right guidance.
5. Find An Accountability Partner
Having someone else who shares similar fitness goals can help provide support and motivation throughout the journey toward achieving them together! An accountability partner should be reliable but understanding; someone who will push you out of your comfort zone and listen when needed during challenging times. They don’t necessarily need to do the same activities as you; just having someone who understands what it takes mentally and physically makes all the difference!
Setting sustainable health goals doesn’t have to feel daunting! By following these five tips, you will have taken an important step towards improving both physical and mental well-being throughout 2023!
To a Fitter Healthier You,
The Fitness Wellness Mentor
