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April 07, 2022
8 TIPS TO MAKE YOUR NEW EATING HABITS STICK | By Hubert Cormier
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Everyone's definition of healthy eating is different. Healthy eating is affected by many factors including culture and education. Between the various trendy diets and the ton of food-related information that is quickly available on the web, changing your eating habits can seem like a daunting task. Remember, maintaining these famous changes over time is a major challenge! Here are some tips to help your new eating habits last.
☝️ WRAP YOUR MIND AROUND IT!
First of all, you should be aware that the decision to start a new eating habit requires a moment of reflection and introspection. Use this time to focus on what is really important to you. To do this, write down your most important values. After that, it will be more obvious which needs you want to address first.
Remember that a new eating habit should not be chosen to relieve a feeling of guilt. It should be done with the aim of increasing your daily dose of happiness. Treat yourself and do things for your well-being first!
☝️ SET NEW, REALISTIC HABITS FOR YOURSELF!
What a tough stage! Sometimes it's hard to stay the course and start habits that are actually doable. Being overly optimistic could ultimately set you up for failure. Of course, it's always inspiring to set big goals, but try to break them down into smaller targets instead.
For example, don't try to go vegan overnight, there are many steps that need to be addressed along the way. Instead, start by cooking two vegan meals on a weekly basis. After a while, this goal will become ingrained in your eating habits and will no longer be as daunting a challenge. So set a new target!
☝️ DON'T PUT TOO MUCH ON YOUR SHOULDERS!
List your priorities! Don't try to change many different things at once, it will make you dizzy! Instead, focus on one or two key targets that really matter to you. Once you have achieved these goals, you can start the others on your list!
☝️ CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME!
Carefully choosing when to start your new habits is crucial. Don't make changes on a whim! This process needs to be thorough and thoughtful. So, if you're going through a stressful period, tiredness, or major changes in your life, this may not be the right time. Instead, opt for a stable period when you will be in a good frame of mind. A new habit will only be achievable when you are really ready to get started!
☝️ DON’T BE TOO HARD ON YOURSELF!
You have probably been too hard on yourself at times. It is normal to give in a few times during the process. It’s an integral part of establishing and maintaining new habits. These relapses are actually unique opportunities for growth and you will learn from them. Remember that a habit is not just for one or two days, but for weeks or months! Acknowledge your efforts from the previous days and stay positive!
☝️ LIST THE POSSIBLE ISSUES!
As mentioned above, relapses are common. However, it is possible to limit them. Simply identify the elements that could potentially make you deviate from your new habits. Immediately look for solutions to the various problems that may arise and write them down.
For example, if you want to reduce your meat consumption, you might experience the anxiety of eating out at a friend's house for a barbecue. To remedy the situation, don't hesitate to bring your own vegetable proteins. Also, you could invite your friends to your home and let them discover your new vegetarian recipes and make an event of it!
☝️ TELL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
Maintaining your new eating habits is much easier when you have support. Talk to your loved ones about the importance of the process: it will make it even more concrete. Plus, who knows, maybe you'll motivate others to follow your example!
You may also want to look for support groups on the web. These are becoming increasingly popular and may help you stay motivated and even meet new friends!
☝️ KEEP TRACK OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS!
In your agenda or in a notebook dedicated to this purpose, keep track of your goals. This will definitely help keep you motivated. When you hit a rough patch, this tool can get you enthusiastic again. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing progress!
Now, you are better equipped with the knowledge required to maintain your new habits.
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