You're ready to create a better life for yourself, to feel empowered. You see there is a gap between where you are and the life you want to lead. You desire change but you just don't know how to start.
Making lifestyle changes can seem like a daunting task. And making changes that last can seem impossible. It's often hard to know where to start. So here I have written out some steps to make it easier for you to get started and to keep going.
Do you want to incorporate more movement into your life? Do you want to include meditation in your weekly schedule? Perhaps you desire more mindfulness, more time with Nature, more walks... Whatever lifestyle changes you want to make, you can use these steps to help you along your journey.
Start making lifestyle changes with these steps:
Check your intention
How would you describe your intention or desires behind the lifestyle changes you want to make?
Life-long lifestyle changes occur when we approach it from a place of love. New habits don't last so long when we try to change ourselves to please others, to "fix" ourselves, to find happiness, or any other reason that doesn't come from loving and accepting ourselves completely.
Set reasonable goals
When it comes to deciding what lifestyle changes you want to make, you need to lay out clear goals. And start small. Make sure the goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-sensitive (SMART). Write them out. Make them visible. Keep your eye on the prize.
Daily conditioning
Changing behaviours requires repetition and consistency. Some days you won't want to do the thing. But you have to keep doing the thing until it becomes a habit. This is where discipline, not motivation, is your way forward. You may not always be motivated. If you are disciplined, then you can still succeed.
Schedule it
If you are like me, you want your new plan laid out as precisely as possible so you don't have to think about it. I will schedule my days down to the hour when I am starting a new routine or trying to include a new habit. Use alarms, reminders, whatever you need to make it clear and unforgettable.
Plan for relapse
It's normal to fall out of practice as you're building your new habit. Make a plan to help yourself out if you find yourself in that situation. Consider what has made you stop in the past. Make a list of things that you can do to get yourself back on track as quickly as possible.
Seek support
Find people to hold you accountable for your goals. A support system to encourage you when it gets tough. Whether that is friends, family, or a coach, feeling like you are supported goes a long way.
Wellness Paths
If you're looking for deeper support, and more help on getting started, I offer 3 Wellness Paths to guide you along your wellness journey. Blending intuitive movement, meditation, and coaching support to help you align your body, mind, and spirit. The Empower Path is for those starting their journeys. This path is designed to help you start making lifestyles changes with the right mindset to make them last.
All Wellness Paths include personalized plans to support the body, mind, and spirit between sessions, my direct support between sessions and access to my newsletter. All types of bodies, minds and spirits are welcome. ♥
When you're starting to make lifestyle changes, try your best to be patient and kind with yourself. Making lasting changes takes time, and you're doing your best. Incorporate the steps above to feel empowered and confident. You'll see that you are truly capable of creating the life of your dreams. And of being the most joyful and fulfilled version of yourself.