For many, the new year brings a renewed focus on health. Many of us, set goals and work towards achieving them. Goals like losing weight or quitting smoking.
Unfortunately, some of us fall short of achieving our goals. Why is that? Experts say that in order to successfully make a change, we must successfully transition through 5 stages. Here they are below.
- Decide if the change is right for you. Your doctor has suggested that you lose weight, but you are comfortable with where you are at. There’s no point in starting anything unless you buy in completely.
- Weigh the pros and cons. You know change is the right thing to do but you’re not entirely sure if this is the right time to try. Weight the pros and cons of tackling change now. If the pros far outweigh the cons, you know you stand a better chance of success.
- Make a plan. Focus on what has worked in the past and what motivates you. Those that fail to plan, plan to fail.
- Take action. Put your plan to work Be realistic about your milestones. Remember that change takes time.
- Keep going. Your change is now routine or a habit. Keep it going. Don’t allow yourself to slip backwards. Rely on family and friends to keep you motivated.
For more detailed information on what it takes to make a successful change, we refer you to this article. https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/FOH-healthy-habit.h10-1590624.html
If your intended change includes a health-related goal such as weight loss, we strongly recommend that you consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before embarking on your journey.