I always have this need to hit the reset button after an indulgent holiday season. With Christmas, my birthday, and New Years all occurring within a week of each other, I don’t hold back and fully enjoy all the indulgences the season has to offer. Yet, with that, come January 2nd (we have a New Year’s day tradition of watching the college bowl games and indulging even more…..) I do a major restart. In thinking about what that will entail for me in the New Year, I decided to dedicate today’s post to sharing the best ways to kick start your healthy lifestyle come January. Whether you’re like me and just getting back on track after a couple weeks, or looking to completely revamp your current lifestyle, I hope these tips will help, as I know I’ve always relied on them over the years…..
1. Clean Up/Throw It Out: I did this when I really cleaned up my diet several years ago, and talked about this idea with client’s who were trying to do the same: stimulus control. Basically, the idea that if it’s around, you’ll use it or eat it… which isn’t helpful if you’re looking to make some changes and those old ways are too tempting. To pull it off you basically toss all those items that will hold you back from the new lifestyle you’re looking to live. Think of those tempting treats, or anything along those lines….. If it’s not in the house, it can’t tempt you.
2. Stock Up: So, you’ve tossed it all out, now fill it back up with clean and nutritious alternatives. If you view food as a source of energy to fuel you throughout your day, it’s easier to decide which ones will do that…. fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, carbs (whole wheat, sweet potatoes, brown rice, etc….), and good spices to kick things up a notch. I put together a grocery list, which I still follow very closely, every week.
3. Put Together A Plan: You can meal plan, or invest in one for you. If you’re looking to go that route, I highly recommend Tone It Up… and maybe start with their free five day cleanse (no juices, all real, clean foods that will fuel your body and leave you glowing….). I’ll be doing it, so I’d love for you to join me too! I always suggest a plan because it helps to guide you if you’re starting from scratch and don’t know where to begin.
4. Say “No:” Part of living a “healthy” lifestyle isn’t just about what you eat and how you workout. It’s about having a healthy perspective + good relationships too. It’s okay to put up boundaries around unhealthy relationships and to say “no” to drama and unnecessary stress. It’s okay to say “no” if you already have enough on your plate… because when you put too much on it, something has to give (which is often something that actually matters). It’s also okay to cut yourself slack, and to be nice to yourself. Treat yourself how you treat others (assuming that’s nicely…). I shared a blog post on having a positive outlook and think it’s always a good reminder. Also, check out my “Watch Those Thoughts” post if you’re looking to challenge negative thinking.
5. Prioritize Working Out: Working out is so much more than “looking good,” for me. Starting my day with a workout helps me set the tone for the next several hours, clears my mind, and is my jolt of caffeine. Figuring out what will work for you is key. If you can’t make it to the gym, again, I recommend Tone It Up workouts. They’re great if you have some basic gym equipment at home. Check out my post on prioritizing workouts for further tips.
6. Get Some Motivation: This is different for everyone, but usually a little motivation, and reinforcing yourself for the healthy lifestyle choices along the way, keeps you on track. At the end of the year, I always invest in some new gear for the coming months ahead…. it can be a new pair of running shoes, a fitness tracker (I’m loving this one right now for tracking steps), a cute pair of workout leggings, a post-workout pullover (got this one for Christmas), or a cute water bottle… usually something small can get you feeling motivated. I shared my favorite workout products below in case you’re looking to invest.
Hope it helps!
(Watch… tracks steps too c/o)
(Leggings (on sale too!) | Tank)
(Half-zip | Leggings)
(Wrap (bought it for my mom in gray and she loves it too))
