What is intent without action? Hold yourself accountable for your best intentions with these helpful tips.
BY: COURTNEY FERREIRA, MS, RD, LDN
Let’s talk about accountability.
It’s true, we are all insanely busy just about every day, causing many of us to lose sight of our goals. Most people wake up each January 1st vowing it will be a better, healthier year. But as the days roll by, that simple promise to yourself falls by the wayside as other priorities come up. Work obligations, no gym membership, social events, cleaning, cooking….the list of reasons go on and on.
Why does this happen? Because you didn’t hold yourself accountable.
Being accountable doesn’t need to be about a complete lifestyle overhaul. It can simply be about making sure you are eating a balanced breakfast every day or sitting less during your work day.
Whatever the case may be, accountability of some sort is a guaranteed way to make it happen. Here are 4 tips for staying accountable…just pick a health goal, and get accountable now:
1. PHONE A FRIEND
Seriously. There is bound to be a friend or family member who is trying to improve or maintain their own health. Ask them to stay on track with you. Daily texts, snaps, emails, or calls for check-ins will help.
2. WRITE IT DOWN
Write a list or put it in your agenda. Keep a notepad on the fridge so you see it constantly. Trying to be active daily? Write down the time you will exercise each day. Want to stop eating office cookies mid-morning? List what you will have for breakfast each day.
Write down something that is aimed towards whatever it is that you are hoping to accomplish, and cross it off when it is completed. This will help you stay focused and keep your goals in the forefront of your mind.
3. REWARD YOURSELF
Setting a goal for yourself and knowing there is a reward at the end can help hold yourself accountable. Buy yourself that new shirt you’ve been eyeing, get a pedicure and massage, or take a relaxing bath.
4. BE REALISTIC
Be realistic with what you are trying to accomplish in the next 12 days. Unrealistic goals are exactly what will stop you from ever getting there, and in some cases, from ever trying. You are setting yourself up for failure, disappointment, and discouragement. Instead, pick something you know you can stick to with just a little bit more effort or mindfulness. Knowing it is doable will help keep pushing you forward to fulfill your goal day after day.
Adapted from the original article.
HEADER IMAGE: FREDDY CASTRO
Courtney Ferreira, MS, RD, LDN is a Registered Dietitian based in Baltimore, MD with a passion for helping individuals reach their health and wellness through flavorful whole foods and freedom from counting calories, fat, and minutes on a treadmill. For more insightful tips on living your healthiest life, visit Courtney at the RealFoodCourt.