5 Ways to Build Healthy Habits That Last
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It happens all too often: The holidays start with a desire to do better, whether that means starting up an exercise routine, losing weight, or engaging in self-care. But by February, many of these good intentions to start healthy habits have fallen by the wayside due to hectic schedules, family and social commitments, and work-related stress.
But don’t be discouraged! We’ve got five helpful tips to help you build healthy habits that last so you can live your healthiest life possible.
At Associates in Women’s Healthcare, we believe that wellness extends far beyond your gynecological health. We want to help you with your overall health as well, making sure we stop medical issues before they develop into serious problems. We invite you to schedule an appointment by contacting us, and we’ll be happy to help you get on track to develop long-lasting positive habits.
5 Keys to Establishing Healthy Habits That Last
The good news is that you don’t have to go through a lot of hassle, or expense, or spend hours watching self-improvement videos. Your healthier lifestyle goals are probably much closer to reach than you realize. The following are simple ways to establish good habits that benefit your health.
1. Start Small and Be Specific
If you set unrealistic goals, then you’ll likely be frustrated and upset if you don’t reach them. Remember that starting an exercise routine rarely begins with running a 5k or mastering Cross Fit.
Often, the most successful people start with specific goals that are easily measurable. For example, you may set a fitness goal of walking 15 minutes a day around the neighborhood. This is measurable and achievable. It’s also specific, and therefore is much more effective than simply stating “Get more exercise.”
2. Focus on Consistency
Consistency builds momentum. Equally important, it integrates your new habit into your daily routine. This not only makes it achievable, but it makes them easy to remember as well. If you still have difficulty recalling these specific habits, we suggest using reminders and setting specific times for habits.
3. Track Your Progress
When you see the progress you’re making, it ramps up your motivation. Seeing that your goals are within reach, fortifies your determination. Consider journaling, habit-tracking apps, calendars, and other items that will enable you to see how far you’ve come in establishing better habits.
4. Pair Your New Habits with Established Ones
This is often referred to as “habit stacking.” It means to add a habit you want to a habit you already have.
For example, let’s say you make your bed every morning before you get dressed. You’d like to establish a habit of daily meditation. Simply “add on” the task of meditating after your habit of making your bed. This will not only smooth your transition to new habits, but it will enable you to maintain consistency.
5. Forgive Yourself
It’s rarely easy to establish new habits. You may run into a few roadblocks along the way, as well as some weeks where you do better than others.
That’s okay.
Berating yourself and being hard on yourself can easily lead to discouragement. Instead, we recommend evaluating the progress you have made, forgiving yourself, and starting the next day with a new determination.
What Are the Top 5 Healthy Habits?
Because everyone is different, it’s challenging to pinpoint the top five. However, in general, the following seem to be the main contenders:
- Eating a Balanced Diet: By watching what you eat, you can decrease your risk of developing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.
- Getting Regular Exercise: Whether you’re taking a walk through the neighborhood or hitting the gym, exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improves cardiovascular health, boosts mental health, and increases overall energy levels.
- Getting Adequate Sleep: A good night’s sleep not only leaves you feeling well-rested, but it’s vital for your mental health as well. It allows your body a chance to recharge and can also help improve your memory.
4. Managing Stress: Mindfulness, meditation, and engaging in fun hobbies can all help you manage stress.
5. Reducing Harmful Substances: If you smoke or vape, this is an excellent time to quit.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Healthy Habit?
The time it takes can vary from person to person. As mentioned earlier, consistency is the key. According to research, it takes patients around 10 weeks to establish a healthy habit that lasts. While that may seem like a long time, remember that the behavior gets easier as you go. Once the habit forms, it can become second nature.
Why Can’t I Form Healthy Habits?
If you have difficulty forming better habits, you’re not alone. Several challenges can make it hard to start a new routine. Some of these include:
Seeking to Establish Healthier Habits? Let Associates in Women’s Healthcare Guide You on Your Journey
We know that your gynecological health is just one small snapshot of your overall health. We’re concerned with ensuring you’re living the healthiest life possible, whether controlling your Type 2 diabetes, establishing an exercise routine, or maintaining a healthy weight.
We’ve mentioned some useful tips for establishing healthy habits, but we also know that it’s very difficult to do these alone. We want you to realize that we’re always in your corner, and we’re willing to tailor a plan to help you reach these goals.
Join our community for exceptional health care. Our board-certified doctors, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, are committed to offering patient-centered, evidence-directed, and quality-driven care. Contact us today to experience healthcare tailored to your unique needs through every stage of life.
