HOW TO MAKE HEALTHY CHANGES

Anybody can set a goal and hope for the best, but a goal without a plan is just a wish. There’s one more important ingredient to add to the mix, and it’s often the trickiest one to crack: motivation.

The good news is that motivation isn’t an innate skill given to a blessed few. Much like you can flex a muscle, there are ways for anyone to develop motivation and make healthy changes in life.

1. Think positive. It sounds like a cliché, but positive thinking makes a world of difference. While it’s not enough to bring you success, the confidence will empower you to be better. After all, if you do nothing but talk yourself down, then you’re just setting yourself up for failure. Be aware when negativity starts to enter your thought stream, and learn how to actively dismiss it from your brain.

2. Set specific goals. The best goals are specific ones. According to the American Psychological Association, people who set specific goals are 90% more likely to succeed. Veer away from plans like “get fit” or “be a better musician.” Focus, instead, on the tangible steps it takes to achieve these. Try committing to jogging every week, or practicing your instrument everyday. These seemingly small achievements add up, and you can keep track of them using the planners featured on Earn Spend Live.

3. Form a routine. It’s easy to get lost in the chaos of daily life. The secret? Form a routine and you’ll never have to feel unstable again. Start from the moment you wake up, throughout your work hours, and until the end of your day. It helps you form productive habits and avoid distractions. Once you see how productive you’ve become, the motivation is exhilarating.

4. Treat everyday like a fresh start. There’s a reason why New Year’s resolutions are so popular.Researchers from the Wharton School of Business found that fresh starts are effective energizers, motivating you to let go of past failures and be better. While you don’t have to wait for January 1, try to treat even the smallest of happenings as a new beginning — whether it’s a breakup or promotion. 

5. Dress for success. The quote "dress for success" holds more water than you think. A survey by psychologist Jeffrey L. Magee reveals that the clothes people wear have an impact on productivity, morals, and manners. On top of this, a study published on Well + Good found that people are more motivated to exercise when they like their outfit. But of course, you shouldn't just hit the gym in your favorite gown. Comfort still plays a role in how you perform, as emphasized by the stretchy bootcut yoga pants on Woman Within. Keep considerations like this in mind, because you still need a good balance of both form and function to look and feel your best especially when working out. 

6. Keep a clear space. A messy environment leads to a messy head. It pays to take a few minutes to tidy up. Not only will this reduce stress, but it will enable you to think more clearly, therefore providing you with more focus to take on whatever lies ahead. 

7. Don’t forget to take breaks. Working nonstop is a sure path towards burnout. Sometimes, take a step back and breathe, even when you don’t think you need it. You can go on a nature walk and meditate, which we previously talked about on a post here on the Shirley Archer blog. They come with a multitude of benefits, like giving you more energy and boosting mindfulness — both integral to keeping yourself motivated.

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