Building Healthy Habits: A Blueprint for Success

I’m boldly calling this year my year of transformation! As I’ve mentioned before, my physical health is the major area of my life that has been out of balance for way too long. Beginning back in the fall of 2022, I began focusing on sugar fasting as a habit to help me improve my physical health. Since starting sugar fasting, I have lost, and kept off, 26 pounds. While I have more to lose, I am embracing this season as a time to learn new habits and break bad habits. I have been inspired by James Clear's wisdom in his book, "Atomic Habits,"  and I invite you to join me in cultivating positive changes that can ripple through every aspect of our lives.

The Power of Habits

As Clear eloquently puts it, "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." Habits are the backbone of our systems, shaping our daily lives. One habit I have developed over the past year has been eating more protein, and less sugar. One habit that I removed from my life was drinking “sparkling ice” drinks. Reflect on the habits that have served you well and those that might need a gentle nudge towards improvement.

Small Changes, Remarkable Results

Clear emphasizes the power of tiny habits, the compound effect of consistent small actions. If you follow me on Instagram, I shared about a tiny habit shift that I did earlier this year - putting my flossers near my toothbrush. While I am not perfect, this small change has helped me make flossing a daily habit. When I went to get my teeth cleaned, I got an A+ from the hygienist on the improvement of my gum health. What small habit can you introduce today that aligns with the healthier version of yourself? Whether it's a morning stretch, a mindful minute, or opting for a meat stick over a sugary snack, these small changes create a seismic shift over time.

Environment Matters

Our surroundings influence our habits. Consider the spaces you inhabit daily. I already told you about moving the location of my flossers to help build my flossing habit. I also keep my workout clothes in a specific spot, so I can easily grab them and put them on first thing in the morning. While I am sugar fasting, I clear out the pantry and fridge of all sugar-laden foods. How can you tweak your environment to make positive habits more enticing and detrimental ones less accessible? Small adjustments in your physical and digital spaces can pave the way for lasting change.

Celebrating Progress, Not Perfection

Building habits is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate every small victory along the way. Embrace the process of becoming, and remember, it's okay to stumble. I was doing so well over the holidays and on our vacation. I only gained 1 pound! I don’t know if it was the impending sugar fast, but this past week, I went a little overboard on sugar, and gained two more pounds! Yikes! I’m so thankful the sugar fast started yesterday, and I’m feeling better already! The key is to get back on track.

As I dive into my 40-day sugar fast, it's not just about abstaining from sweets; it's about rewiring my relationship with food—a habit overhaul. If you've been contemplating joining me, now's the time. The doors are closing soon, but the door to building healthier habits is wide open. Let's step through it together.

Here's to a life sculpted by intentional habits, where each day is a step towards the best version of ourselves. Remember, it's never too late to build a better habit and, consequently, a better life. The biggest step is to get started!

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