I will and I can create healthy habits. It is not enough to acquire healthy boundaries. One must acquire healthy behavior change. We live in a time where we are constantly on the go, working long hours, and raising our children, but that should not stop us from living in optimal health and tranquility. Learning about behavior change and how we can implement it in our lives is tantamount if change is going to occur.
Just as we learn to play golf, tennis or chess, each new behavior towards a healthier lifestyle needs practice and lots of it until it becomes second nature. A slip here and there is part of the behavior change process and hopefully we learn from our mistakes and continue to move forward. Changing bad behavior is not easy, but we are worth the work to make the change. Let’s find time to live better, pamper the spirit, and nurture the soul. We must learn to think differently to behave differently.
When I think about my own story, I came to a period in my life where I had to learn how to revise my boundaries and guidelines to work toward optimal health. I was older and divorced, I owned a business, and my world changed completely. I had so much chaos in my life, I could barely complete a single thought. My knowledge of wellness and best practices were not kicking in. Finally, I had to stop and reaffirm control of my life, which included living healthier, losing weight, and knowing that I am one person. I cannot do it all, but I can do it right.
I finally got to a place of one-day-at-a-time, not one month, or one year. I took the pressure off myself and learned that time was not my enemy, it is a gift. I needed to stop wishing precious time away that God had given me.
I now start my day with thanking God for waking me up every morning. I put on wonderful music and dance and exercise into the kitchen and prepare a healthy breakfast instead of going straight to my computer to start working. I got back in the habit of exercising at least 4-5 times a week. I travel and spend time with family and friends I love; and I ask God for patience to die to the flesh when I want to choke someone for their arrogance or stupidity (deep breathing also works in this situation). These were new boundaries and lifestyle behavior changes I needed to carve out as I moved into a new decade of my life. The old ones did not fit anymore. Today, I take time for self-care, to live, play, eat, sleep, and be a little naughty and sometimes nice. My life is not perfect, but it feels good. I love being a woman and love being in control of my life, health and wealth.
Here are some personal tips for healthy living that one can use in daily practice.
1. Willpower: Know There is a Way
It is the crux of motivation, inspiration and self-control. It is as much an action toward a goal as it is an action, such as preventing yourself from doing something you might regret later. Willpower and self-control drive positive affirmation.
2. Assertiveness
You can be passive, aggressive or assertive in your behavior. We want to be assertive, holding our own and making clear, healthy choices. We live in a time where the world has so much to offer. We must learn to be assertive to get what we need and want.
3. Self-Esteem
Willpower is important to maintain healthy boundaries, but self-esteem is equally essential. Like willpower, self-esteem is a unique alchemy of confidence, courage, humility and self acceptance. Staying in optimal health is a major way to boost self-esteem. You feel good and look good.
4. Time Management
Remember, this component of healthy boundaries involves taking time to practice healthy boundaries. We commit, but do not follow through. If we don’t take the time, our best intentions go to waste. Organize your day to incorporate “me” time, even if it’s just sitting down quietly for 20 minutes. It always begins with you.
Leave a Reply