Making a to-do list can help you become healthier
Once you’ve decided to make changes in your life to be healthier, it’s good to set goals. Having goals will give you something specific to work toward and keep you motivated.
Goals you set should be realistic so you know you can reach them. Experts have found that it’s best to have goals that focus on creating a positive outcome, not avoiding a negative one.
Heart doctor Alan S. Gertler, MD, says that people who want to improve their heart health should set these types of goals:
- Non-HDL cholesterol under 100
- Blood pressure under 130/80
- Fasting blood sugar under 110
- BMI under 25: Waist under 35 inches for women, and under 40 inches for men
Your own health targets may vary. Talk to your health care team about your individual goal numbers for cholesterol, blood pressure, and other factors. Write them down, and use them to measure your progress.
It’s okay to ask for help reaching your goals. In fact, it’s a good idea. “Most people who want to change their lifestyle need someone to help with accountability,” Dr. Gertler says. “This can be a friend, spouse, child, health care provider, or support group.”
If your goals are related to eating better, keep a food diary of your meals and snacks. To monitor your exercise, use a fitness tracking device or smartphone app. If walking more is your goal, use a pedometer to count your steps as you increase them each day.
Sometimes, it will seem like your goal is hard to reach. Try not to be discouraged, and remember why you wanted to be healthier in the first place. Being there for your family, for example, might be your inspiration. Staying in shape in order to be healthy tomorrow can also help you stay focused on your goals. As Dr. Gertler says: “Good health is important for enjoying life.”
DREAM BIG, THINK SMALL
Measuring success in small steps has proven to be a good way to reach big goals. Instead of promising to “lost 50 pounds,” aim to lose just five. When you get to five, you’ll feel confident that you can lose more!
