4 ways to stick to healthy habits

Celebrate “wins” and reframe “losses”

“I wanted to seek additional resources to further my weight loss,” Brittany says. “I had lost about 15 lbs. on my own and wanted to learn about other changes I could make to my diet to continue my success. I began tracking my calorie intake and expenditure more closely and continued to lose weight during the six-week program.”

No matter where Brittany was in her wellness journey, her mindset mattered. Positive self-talk, or the way you speak to yourself, can help you feel confident when challenges arise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say. While willpower can help you get through a difficult time, long-term motivation comes from thinking positively and having self-confidence. With this in mind, Brittany’s coach helped her to turn losses into actionable challenges for the next week.

“I really enjoyed talking to Amanda. She was so nice and personable, I felt like I could really be honest and candid with her about my struggles and challenges,” Brittany says. “She also really wanted to celebrate my wins and helped me reframe my ‘loss’ into a new challenge. I always left our calls inspired and confident that I could meet the next goal or challenge.”

Brittany found that working with a health coach and voicing her goals helped her stay on track.

“The simple fact that I had someone to hold me accountable and say my goals out loud to really made me want to push to meet my goals each week,” she says.

When challenges happen, be kind to yourself

Brittany used a meal tracking app to view her calories and stay accountable, but some days didn’t go to plan. Instead of dwelling on a setback or repeating old habits, she took time to treat herself with kindness.

“There were a couple (not many) days where I just couldn't track my food,” Brittany recalls.

“Instead of days turning into a week, I got up the next day and reset. I didn't beat myself up too much about it and gave myself some grace. Same with days where I went over my calorie allotment. I let it go and tried a little harder the next day, instead of wallowing and ‘eating my feelings’ like I used to do.”

Appreciate your strengths and how far you’ve come

All the changes Brittany put into practice helped build a healthier lifestyle and supported her physically, mentally, and even financially.

“I have learned that I can use my stubbornness to help meet my goals and challenge myself,” she says. “I was able to practice more self-appreciation for my body and how strong I have become over the last year. I have learned that I enjoy cooking at home and have saved money by not ordering takeout anymore.”

Consistency and a support system are the keys to success

Brittany shared her advice for anyone ready to make healthy changes.

“It won't be easy, and you'll want to quit, but focusing on the wins helps,” she says. “Having people on the journey that can remind you of your successes helps on those hard days.”

“Everyone has a different route and it might take you longer than you would like,” she explains. “If you keep working hard and focus on being consistent, you will reach those goals, and meet the challenges.”