Cheryl Gives Tips On Making + Changes

How ready are you for change?

Before making changes, you may want to check yourself to see how ready you are for change.  Your readiness will affect your ability to change.  Start by asking yourself these questions for a quick assessment. 

Are you unaware that a problem exists? Are you aware that a problem exists and seriously thinking about overcoming it? Is your intention to change combined with an action plan? Are you actively changing or modifying your behavior? Have you maintained a particular change for at least six months? Have the changes you made become your ‘way’ of living or have you relapsed? 

No matter where you are in the process, today is a new day! Today, with this breath, in this moment, you can begin again!

Here are some things to consider while making changes:

First of all, you must have a belief in your ability to accomplish a goal or change a behavior.  It’s helpful to create an affirmation or positive statement.  State your desire for a future outcome in terms of the present, as if the result had already been achieved.  For instance, “My body is fit and healthy” not “I want to lose 20 pounds.

Then use your affirmation to create your reality.  You can write or type your affirmations on a piece of paper or in a journal and read them daily.  You can put the affirmations in places where you’ll see them throughout your day; on the refrigerator, by the washing machine, on your mirror, on the car dashboard, or in your calendar.  The key is to say your affirmation until you believe it!

Second, create a healthy environment that supports the changes you want to make.  For example, you might set up an inspirational corner in your home with a yoga mat, journal, some exercise props, or whatever you need to motivate yourself to move more.  You could organize one drawer, declutter one room, or clean out one closet.   Consider removing some of the unhealthy, processed foods from your cabinets.

Third, identify the situations, people, moods, and thoughts that act as cues for unhealthy choices.  Notice when you get off the phone with a particular person if you are heading for the snack cabinet.  Be aware of your feelings as you’re going through the drive thru for some fast food or heading to a bar for drinks after work. Pay attention to the thoughts going your mind when you flip out at someone you care about.  Do all of these things without judgment!  It’s about getting to know yourself better.

Fourth, decide how you will reward yourself for making a healthy choice.  Try to make your reward related to self-care.  For example, get some body work such as reflexology or massage, take time to enjoy an inspirational movie with a close friend, or buy an aromatherapy candle for your bedroom. 

Last but not least, speak kindly to yourself, be your own cheerleader.  No matter how many times you’ve failed in the past, this moment is the one you have control of!

Similar Posts:

• New Year’s Resolutions: Time To Check In With Yourself
• Cheryl’s Stressless Tip: Acceptance
• Cheryl’s Stress-Free Tip: Tune In To Your Emotion
• Make Your OWN Choices
• Cheryl Teaches Us The Basics Of Meditation

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