"Your body will be around a lot longer than that expensive handbag. Invest in yourself."
– Unknown
I have invested in many expensive purses and take care of them; however, I ask myself, do I invest in myself?
I believe that I am a good person. I regularly pray, read my Bible, and check on struggling friends. However, I don't do the things that are healthy for me. As I was thinking about what to write for this blog, I realized how much I do for others, as I believe they are worth it but struggle with my own worth.
What do you envision when you think of a healthy person? Are they fit, skinny, have perfect hair, have good skin? There are more attributes to consider.
I have many medical issues that drive me crazy. I am a Type 1 diabetic, and I have several problems in my "old age." I am overweight, struggle with Edema, and have had COVID four times. Last month, I had some tests done on my heart. Apparently, I have a blood flow issue. On Monday (1/22/2024), I will be having an angiogram to see if there is a blockage.
Getting healthier involves making positive changes to your lifestyle and habits. Here are some steps to help you get started on the path to better health:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive amounts of unhealthy fats.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink adequate water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated.
3. Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Include strength training exercises to build muscle and improve metabolism.
4. Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to rest and repair.
5. Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. Make time for activities you enjoy to relax and unwind.
6. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Quit smoking if you're a smoker, or avoid starting if you haven't already.
7. Stay Socially Connected: Maintain solid social connections with friends and family, which can contribute to overall well-being.
8. Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and catch any issues early.
9. Stay informed about health-related topics and make informed decisions about your well-being.
10. Set Realistic Goals: Break your health goals into smaller, achievable steps to stay motivated.
11. Stay Consistent: Consistency is key. Stick to your healthy habits over the long term.
12. Seek Professional Guidance: If you have specific health concerns or goals, consider consulting with a healthcare professional, nutritionist, or personal trainer for personalized guidance.
Remember that getting healthier is a journey, and it's essential to be patient with yourself and make long-term, sustainable changes. It's also a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before significantly changing your diet or exercise routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
In a perfect world, the above list would be fantastic. Along with learning the skills to get healthy, motivation plays a big part in getting well. I am working on my motivation. I have set goals and not reached them. I have even written blogs and committed to losing weight, exercising regularly, and eating healthier meals. I have not been successful.
I get frustrated when I want something so bad yet don't carry through. The more frustrated I get, the more I want to quit!
Getting and staying motivated can be a challenge at times, but there are several strategies you can use to boost your motivation:
1. Set Clear Goals: Define specific and achievable goals. Having a clear purpose will give you something to work toward.
2. Break It Down: Divide your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes them less overwhelming and more attainable.
3. Create a Vision: Visualize the end result of your efforts. Imagine how achieving your goals will improve your life.
4. Find Your "Why": Identify your reasons for wanting to accomplish your goals. Knowing your motivations will keep you focused.
5. Make a Plan: Develop a detailed plan or roadmap to reach your goals. Having a plan provides structure and direction.
6. Stay Organized: Keep track of your tasks and progress using to-do lists, calendars, or apps.
7. Set Deadlines: Establish deadlines for each task or milestone. This adds a sense of urgency to your efforts.
8. Reward Yourself: Celebrate your achievements along the way. Rewards can provide positive reinforcement.
9. Stay Inspired: Surround yourself with sources of inspiration, such as quotes, books, or role models.
10. Stay Accountable: Share your goals with a friend or family member who can hold you accountable.
11. Eliminate Distractions: Minimize distractions that can derail your motivation. Create a dedicated workspace if necessary.
12. Stay Positive: Cultivate a positive mindset. Challenge negative thoughts and focus on your successes.
13. Take Breaks: Avoid burnout by scheduling regular breaks. Short breaks can rejuvenate your motivation.
14. Find Support: Seek support from a coach, mentor, or support group. They can offer guidance and encouragement.
15. Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use an app to track your progress. Seeing your achievements can boost motivation.
16. Learn From Setbacks: Understand that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Learn from them and use them as opportunities for growth.
17. Stay Flexible: Be adaptable and open to adjusting your plan as needed. Life may throw unexpected challenges your way.
18. Visualize Success: Regularly imagine yourself successfully achieving your goals. This can reinforce your determination.
19. Stay Committed: Remind yourself regularly why you started and recommit to your goals when motivation wanes.
20. Seek Professional Help: If you struggle with motivation due to underlying issues such as depression or anxiety, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor.
Remember that motivation can fluctuate, and it's normal to have periods of lower motivation. The key is to develop strategies and habits that help you maintain and reignite your motivation when needed.
If you need to work on this area, walk this journey with me!
Have a great week.
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