Fit and Healthy: 6 Tips for Staying Motivated

Even the most health conscious people struggle with staying motivated 100% of the time. The key to staying motivated is keeping yourself inspired. Inspiration leads to actions. What inspires you to live healthy? Sure, we all want to look great on the beach, but think of powerful reasons to live fit and healthy that go beyond the scale. Maybe you want to ward off a family history of heart disease or diabetes, or to stop generations of unhealthy eating from being passed along to your family. Once you find your inspiration, set small achievable goals and surround yourself with people who have common goals.

1. Think fit.

Change your perspective from thinking of yourself as an inactive person, to thinking of yourself as a fit person. Then make small healthy changes; add a beginner's workout to your daily schedule, add some whole foods to your diet, and surround yourself with positive people who support you!

2. Set a goal.

Is there one unhealthy habit, that if you could change, would make a big impact on your health, or the health of your family? For example, if unhealthy snacking is a problem, set a goal to replace all unhealthy snacks in the house with healthy options. To create a healthy habit that will last, be sure to identify healthy snacks that your family enjoys. For example, if you're trying to replace after dinner ice cream, offer another family favorite, maybe your family enjoys watermelon just as much!

3. Have healthy foods available and ready to eat.

You know what they say about a road paved with good intentions? It's not enough! Support your healthy intentions by stocking up on plenty of whole, fresh foods. Keeping fresh vegetables, fruits, lean protein, healthy fats, and wholesome grains on hand each week is essential for staying on track.

4. Crowd out processed foods by increasing whole nutritious foods.

Buy less packaged stuff, and more nutritious, fresh foods! Grab a friend and check out a local fresh market, and bring seasonal goodness to your table.

5. Keep a food and exercise journal.

This is a great way to stay motivated and accountable to your eating plan. You can do a traditional journal, or use a smartphone app such as such as Lose It or MyFitnessPal.

6. Remind Yourself Often.

Find ways to remember why you want to live a better and healthier lifestyle. Use visual cues to inspire change, such as family photos, a favorite dress, and post sticky-notes with motivational messages or pictures in key areas such as the kitchen or on the mirror!