Changing your lifestyle can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve struggled with it before.
But the good news is: it’s not your fault, and you can succeed with the right approach.
Professor Henning Langberg, an expert in motivation, has developed a strategy to help you stay on track.
Your body resists change
Our bodies are wired for survival, meaning they prefer to conserve energy rather than spend it.
This makes it naturally difficult to adopt a more active lifestyle or eat fewer calories. Understanding this can help you be kinder to yourself when challenges arise.
Find your personal motivation type
Not everyone is motivated in the same way. Identifying what drives you is key to maintaining long-term change.
The partner type
If you enjoy social interactions, find a workout buddy or join a fitness group. Encouragement from others will keep you engaged.
The competitor type
If you thrive on competition, set small, achievable goals and keep pushing yourself. Tracking your progress will give you the motivation to keep going.
The thinker type
If you are motivated by knowledge, educate yourself on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
Understanding how exercise and nutrition impact your body will inspire you to stay committed.
The mastery type
If you enjoy becoming highly skilled at something, choose an activity where you can improve over time – whether it’s running, weightlifting, or cooking healthy meals.
The creator type
If you love planning and leading others, start a fitness group or organize social activities like walking clubs or healthy cooking nights.
Set realistic goals
One of the biggest mistakes people make is aiming too high too fast. Set small, manageable goals that give you regular wins and keep you motivated.
Prepare for setbacks
Failure is part of the process. Instead of giving up, have a plan in place for when things don’t go as expected. This way, you can adjust and keep moving forward.
Share your plan with others
Telling friends and family about your goals makes you more likely to stick to them. Their support can be a powerful motivator when your enthusiasm dips.
Make it enjoyable
A lifestyle change shouldn’t feel like a punishment. Find activities and healthy foods that you actually enjoy, so it becomes a sustainable part of your life.
This article is based on information from iForm.