In Style

How are things in your life this week? Really good I hope and even if there are some hiccups, ride them out, keep looking for the sparkles, no matter how small they might be and remember, as Rumi said,

"Welcome and entertain them all!

Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,

Who violently sweep your house

empty of it's furniture,

still treat each guest honorably.

They may be clearing you out

For some new delight.

Not always easy to do, but so worth it!

Lately I feel like I'm hearing a lot about Lifestyle. The definition is "the way in which a person lives; patterns of social relations, consumption, entertainment, dress, attitudes, values, and world view". I also get the feeling that it has an underlying desire to be like "someone else".

I'm more interested in what style is embedded in your life?!? I did a little research on what might be included in designing one's best way of living and there can be quite a few parts. Before I get into the list, I'm going to remind you that what you don't design becomes default -- meaning you could end up settling for less than what you deserve or what serves you. I invite you to consider these thoughts and strategies and create your best life. The world will thank you for your effort.

1. Look at the big picture and see if you can get a feel for how the many aspects of health interact. The main things to focus on are: sleep, staying hydrated, managing stress, nutrition, and physical activity. John F. Kennedy said, "Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity."

2. Set goals that are real, doable, and manageable. That might mean giving yourself a little more time to achieve them or breaking them down into small objectives.

3. Create some structure that supports what you want to do.

4. Look for habits that will be easy to maintain and once you feel good about those small changes, build on them.

5. Remember to take your time and be patient. That isn't a pass for slacking off, it's about honoring yourself and your intentions.

6. Ask a friend or two (or three) to join you. Create a "club" where you support and cheer each other on.

7. Track your progress. It will help you rechart the course when you get off track and also help you see what brings success and that you can measure it.

8. Don't try to change everything at once. Stick with what works and address one or two areas that need some tweaking. Amazingly, once you start uplifting one area of your life, other parts fall into place.

9. Look for balance -- in what you eat, how much you exercise, your finances/spending, how much time is spent with work and how much with family or friends.

10. Discover your "why". What's underneath your desires for something different? This can be a great motivator.

How would you describe your current "lifestyle" and is it in step with what you want? If not or even if you just want to make some adjustments, I encourage you to make a plan and, as always, be care-full.

Need help dusting off or sprucing up your lifestyle? I've helped others and I can help you. Take a first, brave step and contact me. We can figure this out.

Happy Healthy Habit Hump Day,