Stay the Course: How to Stick with a Healthy Lifestyle

Many people aspire to change their diet and lifestyle. The real question is, how do we stay committed for the long haul?

There are plenty of valid reasons like kids, work, stress, and lack of time. Even those who start often revert to old habits quickly. What can help us stick with it?

• Understand what we're doing and why the change is necessary. Learn what happens to our body and mind when we eat right, breathe deeply, sleep on time, and engage in physical activity. Without understanding this, our chances of succeeding are slim.
• Learn how to turn this knowledge into action. Make a precise plan. Plan thoroughly, shop efficiently, and prepare in advance — cook for a few days or find kitchen shortcuts. It's more convenient, healthier, and can even be tasty.
• Create a support network around you — family or friends who will make the change with you. When people around us support us and join the journey, we're more likely to stick with it.
• Don't be afraid to fail. "A righteous person falls seven times, and gets up." It's part of the journey. We rise again and continue onward. Many of us may give up after a setback, but it's crucial to remember the goal and keep moving, even if there are bumps along the way.
• Listen to our strengths and take stock of the times when we falter. This should be done without criticism or judgment. Explore what can be done differently during rough patches and plan what can help overcome challenges with minimal setbacks. This will build confidence and give us the strength to continue.
• Embrace the decision with joy and optimism about the change. Results aren't always immediate, and sometimes we need more time. The body isn't always quick to respond as we wish. Perseverance over time usually increases the chances of success, and it's always worth trying.
• Setting a distant goal can be discouraging, so gradual steps and setting realistic goals will strengthen the process and help us stay committed.
• Write a note in a prominent place about how the change will help our memory, mood, cardiovascular health, body, and spirit. This will motivate us to keep going.

Perseverance is key, and there are no magic solutions. Even if we've managed to change a little — that's a lot.

To everyone involved in the task of producing and releasing this bulletin with professionalism, perseverance, dedication, and commitment — thank you.