Shift Your Mindset and Watch Your Habits Change

Did you have lofty goals for yourself as the new year hit?

• You were going to lose weight.
• You were going to hit the gym every day.
• No more junk food.
• No more ice cream after dinner.
• No more nightly glasses of wine…..

The list goes on and on….

However, as the days go by, you find sticking with these new habits are much harder than it seems. Why is it so difficult to stick to your good intentions? The answer may have less to do with willpower and more to do with your mindset.

In order to make lasting change, you need to shift your mindset and watch your habits change:

1. Move from “I have to” to “I choose to”

When you view your habits as something you must do, it feels like a chore. This can lead to resentment and eventually cause you to give up altogether. However, when you see our habits as something you CHOOSE to do—something that’s beneficial—you’re much more likely to stick with it. After all, who doesn’t like getting things done?

2. Change from “this is hard” to “this is worth it”

It’s easy to get discouraged when you’re trying something new and it’s not going as smoothly as you had hoped. But when you remind yourself that the effort is worth the reward, you’ll be more likely to push through the tough times. Yes, making a habit change can be hard work, but it’s worth it in the end. When you start feeling frustrated, think of the person you want to be at the end of 2024 for inspiration.

3. Switch from “I’m not sure I can do this” to “I know I can do this”

Self-doubt is a major obstacle on the road to success. If you don’t believe in yourself, it won’t be easy to make progress. On the other hand, if you approach your goals confidently, you’re much more likely to achieve them. So instead of letting doubt creep in, tell yourself, “I can do this.”

4. Shift from “I’m doing this for myself” to “I’m doing this for others”

As moms, it’s very easy for us to take care of others, and this means we often put ourselves last. One way to support others, is to take care of yourself. You are more likely to follow through when you focus on how your actions will benefit those around you—rather than just yourself. For example, if you’re trying to eat healthier, think about how much better you will feel and how you’ll have more energy to be present for your loved ones—and the ripple effect of your healthy eating on your family!

5. Update from “I’m doing this until…” to “I’m doing this”

When you see your habit change as temporary, it’s easy to fall off the wagon when things get tough or when the time period is over. But if you commit to making these changes more permanent, you’re much more likely to stay the course. So instead of taking the Whole 30 approach or the Dry January approach, which has a set duration, think of this change as a way of eating or living to improve your health for the long-term. The same goes for exercise, sleep habits, and any other area you want to improve.

What’s the best way to achieve your goals?

Take action. Choose one small step, and just start. It doesn’t have to be perfect. You just need to do it. Take action TODAY and schedule time in your calendar to do it again tomorrow. You’ll be amazed at how accomplished you feel in one week by showing up consistently for yourself!

Making lasting habit changes is possible. By shifting your mindset in the ways outlined above, you can set yourself up for success.

Remember to start small and be consistent. Follow these five tips and see how they help you achieve your goals.