Looking after your health and wellbeing can be a challenge without a healthy mindset. While you have great intentions, life often gets in the way. Too busy to eat properly and too tired to exercise are the most used excuses.

Quite simply, you lack motivation. Does this sound like you?

You are not alone.

It is all about having a healthy mindset to motivate you to achieve your goals.

Here are some quick tips to help you stay motivated to live a healthy lifestyle.

Make what you eat and activity a priority

Are you someone who eats what is available when hungry? People with a healthy mindset work the other way round. They prioritise and plan a healthy diet and have those foods readily available.

The same goes for exercise. It is all too easy to make excuses—too tired, too cold, too hot, too busy—not to exercise. So it is important to prioritise, start by dedicating at least 30 minutes to exercise three to four times a week. Block it out in your calendar if you have to - your health and wellbeing should be a ‘non-negotiable’ appointment. 

Keep it simple

A healthy lifestyle does not have to be all or nothing. Make small changes over time that can add up to boost your health. Consider:

•   Avoiding foods high in trans fats such as pastries and chips.
•   Drink an additional three glasses of water a day.
•   Cut down on carbs such as sweets, white rice, and white bread.
•   Get up half an hour earlier to go for a walk before going to work.

Avoid getting hungry

When you go for too long without eating you can eat way too much when you get hungry. Plan healthy snacks such as nuts or fruit in your daily diet so you do not binge eat. Reward yourself once a week with a treat.

Choose to move more

Choose to move more to become more physically active. Take the train to work and walk from the station. Instead of taking the elevator at work, use the stairs. Go for a walk with your dog. Too wet to go outside? Jog on the spot or dance to your favourite music. Make healthy choices and not excuses.

It takes time to commit to living a healthier lifestyle. Do not feel disheartened at how long it takes to achieve your goals. You can do it. All you need is a healthy mindset to motivate you.