One small change

After the holidays and maybe a few indulgences, many of us are trying to improve our diets and lifestyle. Whether you have made specific goals or resolutions, it often helps to just consider one small change.

Big goals are important, but in order to achieve them, it takes many small steps.

So instead of focusing on big goals, go for one small change every day - all in the direction of your big goal.

Here are some examples:

Split second changes:

• order salad dressing on the side, and dip your fork into the dressing rather than pouring it all over the salad
• at the supermarket, select brown rice instead of white rice
• choose a smaller portion of meat
• drink another glass of water
• chose not to have dessert
• select a fruit or vegetable from the store that you've never tried before
• add a tablespoon of ground flax seed to your cereal

Five minute changes:

• make your own oatmeal for breakfast and omit the sugar but add some fruit instead
• make your own trail mix with dried berries and nuts
• meditate for 5 minutes
• chop up some leafy greens and dry (oil free) stir fry to add to your dinner
• at the end of the day, write down three things that you are grateful for that day

Ten minute changes:

• exercise for an extra ten minutes - or start out with ten minutes.  If you goal is to walk for 30 minutes a day, split it into 3 ten minute intervals. You'll get the same benefits.  
• make a salad to go with, or replace, a meal
• try a new recipe
• play for 10 minutes! Have some fun.

All day changes:

• gather up and throw out all the candy and chocolate in your house. If you don't see it, you'll think less about it and won't be able to eat it.
• pour a large jug of water in the morning - flavor it with hibiscus tea for added antioxidants - and drink it throughout the day
• take a break for 5 minutes every hour - and just move, stretch, relax your eyes by focusing on something in the distance, have some water
• tell a friend about what you are doing to make healthier lifestyle choices and support each other throughout the day

Big Difference Poster

Think ahead and plan "what will be my small change today?"

Daily small changes will result in big lifestyle changes.  You can do it!  Just 7 small split second changes in one week can bring a difference.  Think what you can achieve with a whole year of daily changes!

Let me know what small change you make tomorrow.