Make healthy happen this year!

Five easy steps to get healthier and feel better.

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions people have is to get in shape, which is great – but does it ever happen?! I often see people start the year with good intentions, laser-like focus and determination to be healthier but as the weeks roll by and the busyness of the year kicks in, motivation can dwindle and things just go back to the way they were.

Well, not this year folks! I think the secret to success when it comes to being healthy is starting small and being consistent. Don’t overwhelm yourself with pressure, unrealistic goals and feeling like you have to thrash yourself to get results.

Here are five things I suggest you implement each and every week this year, which will help start you on a journey to healthier, happier living. Consistency is the key to making things happen.

1. Plan your meals each week

Without a doubt, this is the easiest and most effective way to help make sure you are eating well. A rough plan of what you will be eating for your evening meals, what lunches you are having and what healthy snacks you need to buy can make all the difference when it comes to making healthy happen. Check out my guide on meal planning here.

2. Double your vege intake

Eating more veg is good for you in every way: more fibre, which is good for your insides to keep things moving; more antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals to help reduce your risk of cancer, boost your energy and look fabulous, as well as helping to fill you up without lots of calories! Have two handfuls of veges with your dinner every night– including the weekends – and find a way to have at least one handful as a snack and/or at lunch, too.

3. Try one new recipe a week

Sick of the same old food? Aren’t we all! Trying to cook a new recipe every night might seem like a nice idea, but it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to keep it up if you are super busy. Set aside one night a week (making it the same night is good for consistency – for me, it’s Saturday) and try a healthy new recipe.

4. Eat for the right reasons

Do you eat when you are tired? When you’re angry? Bored? Feel that you always have to finish everything on your plate? So many of us use food as a coping mechanism for stress or just eat (or drink) for totally the wrong reasons. Spot the patterns in your behaviour, become aware of why you eat what you do. If you find you’re eating for the wrong reasons or just can’t stop yourself from picking or overeating, grab a copy of my book Lose Weight for Life, which will help you overcome all of this. Get your copy here. Alternatively, book in to see one of my team at Mission Nutrition who will be able to help you work through any food issues you have. Book here.

5. Surround yourself with high-energy people

The people you spend the most time with have a huge influence on how you feel and also how healthy you are! If you have friends who love their booze, have a negative mindset or who don’t eat well, it can rub off on you. Look to spend more time with people who support you and your healthy lifestyle this year. Find a yoga buddy, catch up with a friend for a walk and a healthy Japanese meal, rather than a bottle of wine and tapas. Start a meditation course, read inspirational books, talk more to people who make you feel good and feel healthy. Be aware of what you surround yourself with – it really makes a difference.

I could write an endless list of things you ‘could do’ to start making healthy happen this year, but start with these and let me know how you get on! Have a fabulous day.