The first days of 2024 are those classic days when we evaluate what we could have done – and didn’t do – for our health in the year that has ended, and we start to plan what will be different. To what extent can we keep our promises?
Losing weight, eating healthier, quitting smoking, drinking moderately, exercising, sleeping better, managing stress and having more time for yourself are, as a rule, the fundamental pillars of the expected changes.
Many things at once? Depends! Changing a habit or behavior pattern is not a very simple task, but it can be done. Here we have collected some tips to increase your chances of success. Let’s go?
1- Think about realistic goals
It’s better to start slowly, with more tangible goals, rather than creating a goal that’s far away from reality, failing to get there, getting frustrated, and giving up. It is better to go slow and expand little by little, rather than abandon ship halfway through the journey.
2 – Plan and seek support
It is important to plan. There is no need to try to solve everything at once. Maybe changing one habit at a time will be easier. Look for professionals who can guide and support you, such as a physical education teacher, a nutritionist, a psychologist and an endocrinologist. And choose the best time to start. On holiday, perhaps it is better to relax so that, once you return to routine, you can deal with the changes.
3 – It’s not just about change, you have to incorporate it
It is not enough to change and then gradually return to old practices. It is essential that new habits are incorporated into your life and converted into sustainable practices over time.
4 – Watch your emotions
Taking care of your emotions, thoughts and mental health is essential. We human beings have a certain tendency to accommodate ourselves. Changing habits requires effort, some discomfort and can generate anxiety. We must learn to manage our demands, expectations and stress. It may not be easy at first, but it will definitely pay off later.
Let’s see if, this time, you will start more consistently and, at the end of the year, you will be able to celebrate your achievements in terms of well-being, health and quality of life. Cheering here!
*Jairo Bouer is a psychiatrist and writes weekly for Terra Você
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
