5 Small Steps for Making Health a Priority

5 Small Steps

FOR MAKING HEALTH A PRIORITY

in the New Year DR. JUDE FABIANO, DDS

Maintaining your health is one of the best goals to have, but it’s easy for motivation to falter and temptation to override the will to succeed.

The key is to realize that being healthy isn’t a 3-week fad. It is a lifestyle change. It is better to take things slowly and make gradual changes, rather than jump in too quickly and become overwhelmed by the drastic change.

Your body will thank you for making a commitment to your health and fitness this year. Here are a few small steps to get you started on your journey.

MAKE A LIST OR VISION BOARD For some people, it is helpful to write lists of long-term and short-term goals. For example, a long-term goal could be to lower your blood pressure and a short-term goal could be to eat 3 servings of vegetables today.

More visual people may instead benefit from a vision board with quotes and photos that keep motivation up.

BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF We all have various priorities throughout the day.

It’s okay to admit that work and family commitments will sometimes come ahead of your commitment to health and fitness.

What’s important is finding a balance and accepting that balance.

CULTIVATE A SUPPORT SYSTEM It’s hard to eat healthy foods for each meal if your friends and family are not following the same diet you are. Instead of creating tension, try to teach those around you the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle.

This is especially important for children. When health becomes a commitment for the entire family, it’s easier to motivate each other on days when you’re struggling.

KNOW THAT NOBODY'S PERFECT A healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean you must avoid cake at a party or vow to never touch another fried appetizer. Eating the foods you love in moderation will give you a greater appreciation for them while still allowing you to stay on track.

CONSULT PROFESSIONALS ALONG THE WAY Although credible information can be found online and in books, the best health advice will always come from a medical professional.

They will know your health history and point you in the right direction if any questions arise along your journey toward a more fit and healthy lifestyle.

It’s important to remember that results don’t happen overnight, but you will gradually notice changes in your body, mood, energy levels, and more.

Eating healthy foods and exercising is the best way to help your body function optimally year after year.

However, this isn’t where “health” ends. You should also pay attention to your sleep habits, mental health, social health, and overall well-being.

THANK YOU JUDEFABIANO.ORG