Five Daily Habits with Huge Results
ProHealth Newsletter
January, 2012
“First, we make our habits, then our habits make us.” – Charles C. Noble
For many of us, January is a time for making resolutions. Sometimes they stick, sometimes not. The good news is that behavior change can be successful and often results in big benefits. According to Dr. Michael O’Donnell, author and researcher, there are four key things that can help you build healthy habits. They are Awareness, Motivation, Skills and Opportunity.
- Awareness helps you understand the health benefits of a behavior but is really a starting point.
- Motivation is even more important. Are you ready to make a change? Will the change make you feel good about yourself or relate to something you really care about?
- Skills (or building them) can lead to success, and goal setting is one important skill.
- Opportunity is often driven by our surroundings. Do they make choosing the healthy behavior the easiest choice?
Pick one of the healthy habits listed below to focus on, or choose your own.
1. Build positive social ties. Evidence is mounting that good social support has profound impact on your happiness and longevity.
2. Move your body at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Find something active you love to do, and do lots of it. The more you move, the more energy you’ll have and the more you can accomplish.
3. Sleep. Getting quality sleep on a regular basis gives you more energy and enthusiasm – and a healthier heart!
4. Eat for the health of it. Try to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables; fill the other half with lean protein and whole grains. Don’t forget the low-fat dairy items.
5. Be safe. Use seat belts, helmets, and other protective gear. Make your car a no-phone zone and arrive at your destination safely.
Source(s): Taken from the December Hennepin County (MN) Public Health Newsletter. Like this topic? Sign up to receive the ProHealth newsletter directly to your email.
