Many of us want to be healthier but need help to stay motivated or find ways to achieve our goals. Instead, here are a few health and wellness goals that are attainable and sustainable.
Be Specific
Whale is not a goal; you first need to be specific with what you want to achieve. Much like when people quit smoking and, set a date for when they want to start using disposable vapes, for example, set some dates for achieving a specific thing.
The goals for this can be as simple as running a mile without stopping to something more intense like being able to do 30 push-ups without a break. Whatever it may be, have a goal and set a date you want to achieve it.
Cut Out a Bad Habit
The first goal you should have is to cut out one bad habit. Whether it be eating too much sugar, smoking, or not getting enough sleep, trying to cut out one bad habit a month will put you on track to a healthy lifestyle.
Focusing on one bad habit a month also stops you from feeling overwhelmed, and, instead of spreading your effort, you are able to put all of it into one habit.
Exercise 12-16 Times a Week
There is no need to exercise every day of the week, but getting regular physical activity makes a massive difference. Considering we all have busy schedules and aren’t always able to get to the gym, focus on working out in some way three or four times a week.
You also don’t need to go to the gym; swimming, hiking, yoga, etc, are all physical activities that can help improve your health.
Try a New Workout Each Week
If you want to hit the gym but are unsure where to start, one of the best things you can do is try multiple workouts throughout the month. Not only will this get you up and moving, but it will also help you find a workout you love.
One of the biggest problems many people face when they first start working out is the fact that they don’t enjoy the exercises they are doing. When you enjoy your workout, you are far more likely to stick to it and be consistent.
Walk 10,000 Steps a Day
One of the best weight loss “secrets” is that you can make a huge dent in your exercise goals just by walking. Walking 10,000 steps a day can burn as much as 600 calories, and when combined with a calorie deficiency, you can lose weight without even stepping foot in a gym.
While this may seem like a lot, if you start to make walking your primary mode of getting around, you will start racking up the steps in no time.
Count Your Calories
Counting calories may put some people off due to how it has been promoted in the past, but it is still a great practice if you are looking to lose weight or simply eat healthier. It is also much easier than you might think.
Being aware of how many calories you are eating will stop you from overeating, and will also help you lean into more healthier options. Use an app to track your calories, and you will quickly start noticing changes in how you look and feel.
Drink 2-3 Liters of Water a Day
Many people tend to not drink enough water in a day, but there are multiple benefits to getting 2 to 3 liters of water in your system. It can help curb hunger, improve your mental state and ability, and keep your body feeling fresh and ready to go.
While tracking glasses of water can be annoying, invest in a 1-liter water bottle and aim to finish it by lunchtime, refill it, and try finish that bottle by dinner.
Get 8 Hours of Sleep
Sleep is another part of out lives that we often don’t give enough attention to, but enough sleep is beneficial to both our bodies and minds. It helps your body to relax and recover, but it also allows your brain to rest and reset, and allows it to perform to the best of its ability.
A great trick to help you fall asleep at a decent time is to put your phone down and pick up a book before bed. It also helps to set a “bedtime,” which doesn’t necessarily have to be the time you fall asleep but rather a time you should be in bed.
Have 6-8 “Stress-Free” Days
Even if you have a busy schedule, it is important to take time for yourself. Not only does this allow you to relax and set your mind at ease, but stress-free days are great for both your mental and physical health.
Set a goal to have at least six stress-free days a month, when you just think about yourself and do things that make you happy. Whether that be sleeping, watching movies, or diving into a hobby. It removes you from the working mindset, and can also help stop any burnout that may be building.