How quickly do you get used to a healthier lifestyle?
“On Monday I’ll start dieting again.”
If you’ve ever heard or said this, you know how hard it can be to stick with healthy eating—especially if you’re doing it alone!
Behavior
Luckily, you’re working with a coach to help change your behavior. Eating and living healthier—especially in the beginning—requires attention and awareness. You’ll need to consciously reflect on your new (eating) habits every day. The longer you stick with it (and the more often you repeat it), the more efficient and automatic this new behavior will become. Eventually, it becomes a habit!
A matter of time
Various studies have looked at how long it takes for behavioral change to occur. On average, it takes about 66 days.
If you happen to skip your new habit for a day, don’t worry—you can pick it up again the next day. Research shows that a one-time slip has only a minor effect on forming new habits.
Tips during behavioral change:
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Make sure you know why you want to change your behavior. The benefits should outweigh the drawbacks. What will this new behavior bring you?
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Make sure your environment supports you
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The best way to break an old habit is to replace it with a healthier one (rather than eliminating it completely).
Used to eat a cookie in the afternoon? Have a piece of fruit instead. -
Reflect on the successes you’ve achieved and be proud of yourself!