As you already know, it is very important to take care of your health. You need your health in order to run your business, take vacation, and simply to enjoy life.
Recently, I’ve decided to transition to a meatless diet after watching a documentary called “What the Health.” The documentary confirmed some things about meat and the affects on our bodies that I already sort of knew, but wasn’t sure of.
I decided to go meatless because I wanted to increase my energy and have better overall health. But, if you have ever made a change to your diet before, you know that it can be a struggle. Especially in an American Society that doesn’t promote healthy eating, let alone Vegan/Vegetarian eating.
If you are starting something new in your life, I want to share with you a few tips that I am applying to my life to help make the transition easier for me.
- Make a transition plan versus a cold-turkey plan. Whether you’re cutting sugar, coffee, fats, or meats from your diet, the withdrawal symptoms are real. If you’re not under medical care to make an immediate, drastic change, make a gradual change. Right now, I only have meat once per day instead of with every meal. I will do this for a couple of weeks. Then I’ll transition to only eating meat 4 days a week, then 2 days a week, then zero days a week. Creating a transition plan sets you up for success because if gives you the time and space to get your mind and environment right for your new way of life.
- Enjoy the process. Don’t entertain thoughts of what you’re giving up (meats). Focus your thoughts of what you’re gaining (energy and health).
- Keep track of your results. In my case, I am not keeping track of my weight or inches (although that can be important). I am keeping track of how I feel each day.
- Be gentle with yourself. Perfection is not required. If you fall into temptation, don’t stay there. Get back up.
- Discipline is required. Don’t give yourself permission to fall into every temptation to go back into your old way of life. Take charge of your day and plan accordingly. If you know that you have a family BBQ coming up and you’re transitioning to being vegan, bring meatless burgers with you to put on the grill. If you’re giving up refined sugar but you’re going to a birthday party with tons of dessert, bring your own sugar-free dessert so that you’re not standing on the side lines looking like a lost puppy.
- Keep your goals in front of you daily. Each morning, remind yourself why you’re doing this. Each evening, remind yourself that you’re doing a great job and making progress. Repeat.
And that’s it. No matter what changes you’re making in your life, following these 6 simple steps will you be successful along the way.
~Sherica
