Four Ways to Sidestep the Pitfalls

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Continuing your 2019 goals can be challenging. Reminding yourself of the bigger picture, like better heart health, is just one way to sidestep pitfalls. Use these four tips to overcome setbacks!
  • Always launch change with a plan. Map out the journey you’re embarking upon. It’s tempting to skip straight to the action, especially when you’re feeling inspired to make a change. By winging it, though, you may ignore important issues, such as why you do—and don’t—want to make this change. Make a commitment based on that knowledge, then plan a path of small steps that lead to your goal.
  • Set off at a reasonable pace. Rushing rarely works. Few of us are designed to go from zero to 60. In the exercise world, going to quickly puts you on track for injuries, not success. In the diet world, you get sick of nibbling only celery sticks and raw cabbage, and head for the chocolate cake. Let small, steady changes help you achieve what you hope to do.
  • Envision a happy outcome. Rather than telling yourself “I should be meditating every day” or blaming yourself for failing, try saying aloud “I feel calmer and happier when I meditate regularly.” Framing a change with a positive mindset allows you to be healthier and happier!
  • Expect lapses. Lapses are so normal, experts actually write this into the stages of change. Embrace lapses as part of the process, then brainstorm solutions to the challenges that derailed you. If necessary, whip out your plan to maneuver around lapses. And try, try again.
Source: Harvard Health

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