Having the interest in changing your health is one thing, but in order to create lasting change you have to be really ready. How do you create habits that actually last? It’s what the providers at Innovative Vitality help you do, and it’s why our patients have a more than 95% success rate in helping patients reach their weight loss goals.
Here are some of the tips our providers give to patients as we work to build new, healthy routines.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to create new habits is starting too big. Instead of committing to an hour-long workout every day, start with something small and manageable, like 10 minutes of movement. The key is consistency. When you achieve your small goal daily, it builds confidence and sets the stage for lasting success. As you maintain your habit, you can gradually increase its intensity or duration.
The best way to make a habit stick is to tie it into something you already do. If you want to drink more water, pair it with an activity you already do multiple times a day, like having a glass of water with every meal. By integrating new habits into your existing routines, they become automatic, reducing the mental effort needed to maintain them.
There’s something powerful about seeing your progress over time. Whether it’s a simple checkmark on a calendar, a habit-tracking app, or a journal, tracking your progress reinforces positive behavior. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment, which boosts your motivation to continue. Plus, when you track your habit, it’s easier to spot patterns and make adjustments as needed.
This is an important one, and it’s a perk of being our patient. Your provider holds you accountable through daily texts, weekly appointments and real data. For non-patients, share your goals with a friend, family member, or community who can help hold you accountable. Whether it’s checking in weekly, joining a group challenge, or working with a coach, having support increases the likelihood of sticking to your habit. You don’t have to do it alone!
Remember, each small step is like adding another block to your healthy lifestyle—before you know it, you’ve built something solid and sustainable. If you’re interested in our program and having a provider who is also your health coach, visit Innovative-Vitality.com to get started.