Make It A Lifestyle

Ah, the end of August is actually here. Summer is over, vacations are put on hold, the kids are going back to school, and suddenly we’re entering a brand new season full of opportunities.

If your summer schedule was full of late-night barbeques, beach days, and family getaways, you may be looking forward to the structure fall has to offer. Because while summer is a great time to relax, rejuvenate, and experience a little less stress, the laidback mindset that pairs perfectly with summer time can make sticking to our health goals a bit more difficult.

So let’s remember summer for all the full belly laughs, sweet memories, and warm nights, and wave goodbye as we settle into a new routine this fall. At DEFINE foods, we are always looking for ways to help you feel your best. And we know that in order to reach those goals, we’ve got to set some goals. And with a new season approaching, there’s no better time to introduce a new routine that’s sure to set you on the right path.

How To Establish A Routine That Lasts

First things first, you need to get clear about what you’re looking to achieve. In order to create a routine that provides the results you want, you need to know what your goal is.

When deciding your goal, try using the acronym “SMART:” Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. Make sure your goal fits those requirements, as it’s designed to make them more achievable. Ideas like sustainable energy, maintaining a healthy weight, and mental clarity are always high-priority goals, but they can be a little broad. For more specific goals, consider any of the following:

• Swapping your morning coffee for an adaptogenic elixir
• Identifying self-care rituals that can make it into your schedule
• Experimenting with a plant-based diet

Set yourself up for success. When establishing new habits or routines, there are a few tricks that can make it easier to stay on track.

Every habit is initiated by a reminder. For example, the habit of washing your hands is prompted by the soap being placed right by the sink. The same idea can be applied to any habit. If your goal is to start drinking herbal tea in the morning, make sure the mug is out and the kettle is on the stove the night before. When you wake up the following morning, you’ll see everything is ready, making the habit so much easier to incorporate. Small adjustments like that are vital, so be sure to give yourself every opportunity to succeed.

A little reward every now and then can be a good thing. We naturally want to do things that make us feel good, so in order to make an action become a true habit, we’ve got to enjoy doing it. Each time you’ve completed your new goal, be sure to give yourself some positive reinforcement. It’s as simple as audibly saying “great work” to yourself after finishing a new workout, or physically giving a pat on your back after organizing the utility closet. Over time, these small positive reinforcements will have you feeling inspired and motivated to continue reaching your goals.

Trying to establish a new routine can be hard, and we don’t want you to do it alone. At DEFINE foods we want to make it clear that we’re always here to help with your health goals. Natural Foods Chef Erin Stewart offers private consultations designed to prepare, inspire, and motivate you to reach your goal and establish new routines. Consultations offer you the opportunity to speak with a professional who hears what you’re saying and provides a personal, realistic plan to get you where you want to be and keep you on track.

Make this fall the time to establish a new routine. Whether it’s eating more greens, improving time management, or experimenting in the kitchen, we want you to succeed. In this coming season, make our Meal Program a part of your new lifestyle. Continued incorporation of our plant-based, nutrient dense meals will give you the physical energy, mental focus, and motivation to go out and pursue your personal goals. If just one of our vibrant and fresh meals can leave you feeling lighter, more energized, and completely satisfied, imagine what you could achieve when it’s a part of your normal routine.