Don't Quit!
How many times have you started a diet or health plan only to
quit after a few weeks? Maybe more often that you'd like to
admit! How can you set yourself up for success and limit the
temptation to quit? Plan well!
Once you have decided on your goals or what it is you're trying
to achieve there are some tips that can help you succeed.
Work on one goal at a time. Don't cause yourself stress trying
to make too many changes at the same time. Possibly some of the
things you are trying to change are die-hard habits that need to
be tackled slowly and consistently for the desired changes to
become the new habit.
Break down your goals into smaller pieces. For example, focus on
the half a kilo you want to lose this week compared to the 20
kilos all up.
Tackle only one piece at a time. Have you ever heard the saying,
"How do you eat an elephant?" (One piece at a time!!) Biting off
more than you can chew will only set you up to quit. To succeed,
work on one small piece of your goal and only move on to the
next step when the first step is complete.
Prepare and plan for obstacles. What will you do WHEN (not if)
you get offered a slice of chocolate cake while on your diet?
What will you do when it's raining outside and you were planning
to go for a walk? By planning ahead you won't be put off or
tempted to quit when obstacles arise.
Don't give up if you slip up. So you don't lose your half a kilo
this week, don't quit, just start from where you left off and
learn from the slip up. Why did this happen? What will you do to
prevent it happening again?
Celebrate every success. Every step towards your goal is a
success. Reminding yourself of that and celebrating every
success will help you stay in action and leave you feeling proud
of what you've achieved. Reward yourself with every weekly step
you accomplish. Go to the Day Spa, visit a friend, buy a small
treat, whatever will reward you for your accomplishment.
Get support. You've heard it said that two heads are better than
one so share your goals with others. Being accountable to others
curbs the temptation to quit. Who can support you? Friends, can
you find a diet buddy? Join a support group (diet group/health
club etc). Or get the help of a professional such as a
Dietician, Counsellor or Life Coach.
This week set up a plan of success. Work out what obstacles will
get in your way of succeeding and how you will combat these.
Above all set yourself up for success and limit the temptation
to quit!