Looking ahead to 2024 and setting goals? Looking to up your health game in small ways? If you answered yes, you are in the right place! I am all about helping you improve your habits for a healthier lifestyle, eat more plant-focused, and figure out how to focus a bit more on yourself. AND if you are a stay-at-home mom like me, let’s not forget all the household responsibilities you must also add to your thoughts.
It is a lot, I know, so I want to make sure I help provide you with some things to think about that will help you focus on your health in 2024. Making small changes and building healthier habits can lead to a more vibrant and energetic you. In 2024, let’s embark on a journey to embrace eating more plants and incorporating habits that nourish both your body and mind. Here are 20 (in no particular order) simple ways to build a healthier you!
20 Ways to Build Healthy Habits in 2024
- Eat breakfast. Opt for smoothie bowls, overnight oats, or sourdough toast with avocado for a nutrient-packed start to your day. You might also like this free 7-day meal plan that includes recipes for all your meals!
- Drink more water. Drinking enough water is crucial for overall health. Keep a water bottle handy to sip throughout the day and infuse it with fruits or herbs for added flavor if plain water is too boring.
- Take time to plan your meals. Even if you only plan one day at a time, building on this habit will help you cook more at home and get a variety of nutrients.
- Try new recipes. Not every day – that will be overwhelming – but aim to try new recipes either once a week or every other week. Need ideas? Check out this collection.
- Slow down your meal time and actually enjoy what you are eating. This helps you learn how to pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. This can prevent overeating and promote a healthier relationship with food.
- Aim to add more color to your plates. I am talking about real food, not skittles. Sorry, my friend. Different colors often indicate a diverse range of nutrients, promoting overall health.
- Move Your Body. Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Whether it’s a home workout, a brisk walk, or yoga, staying active contributes to overall health and well-being. Yes, even if it is just 10 minutes.
- Find support in a community. Support can come from anywhere but if you want to change the way you eat, having a solid support system is key!
- Have fun! Changing your habits should not be horrible. yes, you will have challenges but it should not feel like torture. If it is torture, you might need to reevaluate what you are doing.
- Set Realistic Goals. Establish achievable goals to track your progress. Celebrate small victories and use setbacks as learning opportunities rather than reasons to give up. Good things take time and are worth the effort.
- Take Breaks Throughout the Day. If you sit all day, find times to stand up and stretch, take a deep breath, or maybe take a short walk after your lunch break. This can help alleviate physical and mental tension.
- Establish a morning routine. My morning routine is essential. I drink my tea and read in silence for at least 20 minutes, even on my early workout days. It really sets the tone for my day!
- Eat on smaller plates. I truly believe that the bigger your plate, the more you will eat. Using smaller plates can help you control portions and prevent mindless eating.
- Get outside more often. Spend time outdoors, whether it’s in your backyard, a local park, or a nature walk. Fresh air and nature can have a positive impact on your mood and well-being.
- Set phone boundaries. Do you have times of the day when your phone is off-limits? This one can help reduce stress levels and even make a more meaningful connection with your family.
- Say no. Yes, of course, say no to drugs, but I mean say no to things you don’t want to do. Recognize your limits and be comfortable saying no to additional commitments when needed.
- Practice Intuitive Eating. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re satisfied, focusing on nourishing foods.
- Skip the plant-based meats like the impossible burger or beyond beef. They are really not healthy for you. Instead, try veggie-based patties like these from Dr. Praeger’s, or using tofu or tempeh in your meals.
- Invest in help. You can get things done so much faster when you have someone who specializes in what you want to learn more about. For example, if you want to learn more about eating plant-based, meal planning to help you eat healthier, or figuring out food sensitivities, I am your girl. You want someone to help you with your taxes, I am not your girl.
- Celebrate Achievements. One we often forget. Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, both big and small. Positive reinforcement can motivate you to continue building and maintaining healthy habits.
By incorporating even just some of these habits into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
