Making a big life change can be scary, whether you’re quitting your 9-to-5 to start your own business or simply trying to live a healthier lifestyle. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and give up before you even get started. That’s why it’s important to take things slowly and gradually adjust to the lifestyle you want. Here are three tips to help you do just that.
1. Set small, achievable goals.
The first step is to set small, achievable goals that you can reasonably accomplish in the short-term. These could be things like working out three times a week or cooking dinner at home four nights a week. The key is to not bite off more than you can chew; you don’t want to set yourself up for failure from the start.
2. Make gradual changes.
Once you have your goals in mind, take things slowly and make gradual changes. For example, if your goal is to work out three times a week, don’t go from zero days to three days overnight. Start by working out once a week and gradually increase frequency as you get more comfortable with it. The same goes for diet changes; don’t completely give up all of the foods you love cold turkey (you’ll just end up feeling deprived and miserable). Instead, focus on gradually increasing the amount of healthy foods you’re eating while decreasing the amount of unhealthy foods.
3. Find a support system.
Making any major life change is easier with a supportive network behind you. Whether it’s joining a gym or health club, signing up for a cooking class, or simply asking a friend or family member to hold you accountable, having people in your corner will make it that much easier to stick with your new lifestyle.
That’s why it’s important to take things slowly and gradually adjust to the lifestyle you want. By following these three tips—setting small, achievable goals; making gradual changes; and finding a supportive network—you can make adjusting to your new lifestyle as easy and painless as possible.