Plan for success

    Have you ever thought about how your social environment affects your journey toward healthy lifestyle goals? Our surroundings, family, friends, coworkers and even pets have a much greater influence than we realize.
    Successfully changing and sustaining behavior change becomes much more challenging when you are not supported from the people closest to you. Positive influences are people who are supportive and willing to do what they can to make your journey easier. They also include role models — people who always find time to be active or prioritize mindful eating.  
    A negative influence, on the other hand, is someone who is critical of your efforts toward a healthy lifestyle. They may even feel competitive.
    In addition to people, other aspects of our social environment can have bearing on our success too. Do your coworkers usually bring tempting treats to share in the break room? Does your spouse normally find a reason to talk you out of the walk you want to take with them? Do the church potlucks find you tempted by all of the creamy salads and chocolate desserts?
    Do you have good intentions of ordering something healthy for lunch until you notice the daily special, or can’t stop thinking about your favorite menu item? It’s easy to fall back to our old habits and throw the healthy lifestyle changes we’ve made out the window. The best step to success is planning ahead!
    Plan your physical activity time, weekly meals, snacks, groceries and choices when eating out.

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