Change For Good

One of our core missions here at Lyfebulb is to inspire change, which happens to be a popular topic this time of year.

It’s no secret the new year brings with it the notion of change and self-improvement.  And as far as I’m concerned change is a good thing!  It opens up space for small but powerful lifestyle improvements.  Whether that’s healthier habits, cooking, or even breathing, small changes add up (these are all great goals, by the way!).  As my mentors say: small hinges swing big doors.

I’ve shared my top three tips below, which will help you establish achievable, inspired (and inspiring!) goals.  But first, start with this question: If you could wave a magic wand, and really get what you want in the next (insert time period), what would that look like?

State your goal in the positive

Say what you want, not what you don’t want.  This will help keep your mind focused on the positive, which impacts the small, daily decisions.  It’s much easier to make changes when we work toward something, rather than pulling away from something.  For example: “I’d like to incorporate more whole foods to my diet”, instead of “No processed foods.”  Other ideas might include:

• Drink more water
• Spend time with a good book each night
• Experiment with new veggies in my diet

Goal should be initiated and maintained by self

While it’s important to surround yourself with individuals who inspire and motivate you, it’s equally important we set goals that don’t rely on someone else changing.  In other words: look to others for support and motivation, but don’t make them the cause of change.  Here are some examples:

• Start a new blog to document my favorite recipes
• Practice yoga for 20 minutes every other morning
• Smile at strangers on the street

Size matters

Your goals should be large enough to be worthwhile yet small enough to feel attainable.  I love checking things off my to-do list; it makes me feel productive and validates my efforts.  The same thing goes for our goals.  Be realistic.  Maybe you’d like to join a book club that meets twice a week, but you know that might put a strain on your schedule.  Instead, you join one that meets every other week, knowing you can follow through with your commitment with ease.  Here are some other “sizable” goal ideas:

• Workout twice a week
• Get to bed 30 minutes earlier at least three times a week
• Cook one new homemade meal each week

 I encourage you to jot down a goal or two taking these tips into consideration (did you know? writing your goals down on paper will help hold you accountable) and revisit it regularly to ensure your thoughts and actions stay aligned.

If you’re looking for inspiration we invite you to check out Lyfebulb Connect where you can find support and resources dedicated to improving the quality of life for those living with chronic disease.  Here we use our stories and experiences to encourage and inspire one another in making changes – but it all starts with you.  What changes do you see for yourself?  To borrow the quote from Gandhi: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”