3 Lifestyle Tips for the New Year - Guest Post by @anna.likes.fitness

Most people aspire to become healthier in the new year, however, society's definition of "healthy" might not benefit you. Health doesn’t have a look. Instead, focus on how you feel!

I prefer to set specific and actionable goals over resolutions.

Tip 1: Healthy food shouldn't be boring

Many people aspire to eat healthier in the new year, but often struggle to break old habits. Healthy eating is often equated with restrictive habits and bland food. This should not be the case. 

Eating tasty and colorful meals will make healthy eating easy. Including healthy protein, carb, and fat sources will make meals filling. Focusing on nourishing your body and giving it what it needs will make lifestyle changes sustainable.

Tip 2: Find Movement You Like

I am often asked how I am so motivated to train. I find there are two crucial parts of a good exercise regimen. First, find what you love to do. For me, I love to lift and run. I enjoy other activities too, but those are by far my favorite.

Because I love this type of training, it is easy to stay consistent. However, I think some people confuse motivation and discipline. I am not always motivated to work out, no one is. But because these are things I love, I have the discipline to show up even when I don't want to. I know in the long-term showing up will help me achieve my goals.

Tip 3: Recognize You Need to Take Care of Yourself First

Even though it sounds cheesy, self-care is not selfish. A great quote I keep in mind is "You cannot pour from an empty cup.”

In today's world "the grind" is glorified, but being busy is often conflated with productivity. You can be extremely busy, but not achieve anything. That is why it is important to slow down, take care of yourself, and pursue your goals intentionally.

Mental health has been a struggle during the pandemic, and as many return to school and work, it is easy to disregard. But if you do not care for your mental health, you won't be able to perform.

The same goes for physical health. No matter how hard you train, if you do not eat well and sleep enough you won't make progress.

Going into a new year, make sure to prioritize mental and physical health with adequate sleep, nutrition, and mental breaks.