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7 Ways to Achieve Your Health Goals (and Do Not Disturb) 
 

Developing  new good habits can be difficult, but  it can be even more difficult if your friends and family don't support you.

Sophie AlBassam explains how to set them aside and shares 7 ways to reach your health goals this year. 

Does your partner bring home greasy takeaway meals when you try to eat healthy? Perhaps your best friend is trying to convince you to have another drink at the party. 

It can be hard to admit, but the people closest to you can sometimes interfere with your health goals. Let's look at three common scenarios in which a loved one may not support you, and how to achieve your goals  with or without  help. 

Health Goal: Reduce Alcohol Consumption 

 

Goal Threat! 

You meet regularly with friends to drink and  laugh while you catch up. Even if we can't meet  in person, we're enjoying our online happy hour. And, like many women, since the pandemic started, you have a few more glasses. When you quit drinking and decide to drink only water, they say, "None or neither!" or "But we congratulate you on my birthday/promotion/moving!" 

 

Campus 

In May, we drink alcohol in public places, even at work events. However, this does not mean that the goal of reducing alcohol consumption cannot be achieved. Instead, make sure alcohol isn't on the menu by going for a walk with friends or suggesting a morning coffee. 

If you're going out for a drink, grab a glass of water in between drinks or go out to buy each other's drinks and eat without being stuck in a bar. If all else fails, prepare some handy explanations. "I'm driving." or "I have an early check-out tomorrow." Or it could simply be "I've had enough today." 

Health Goal: Eat more fruits and vegetables. 

Target Threat! The recommended daily intake of vegetables  is 5 servings, but most of us eat  about half of that. Increasing your vegetable intake can provide your body with the  nutrients it needs to function properly, as well as lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and weight gain. 

You decide to throw away snacks and processed snacks and replace salty, high-calorie takeaways  with home-made fruits and vegetables. But your partner seems to be holding you back at every step of your way. When you make a fresh, healthy salad they decide to order a convenient takeaway meal. Add yogurt and carrots to your shopping list,  and ice cream and sweet cookies are back home. 

Fix Certified Dietitian Caitlyn Reid says this reaction can occur because your partner feels threatened. “Your new healthy lifestyle choices can make you feel guilty because you lack the self-control to take the same steps as you do. You may even be judged for your choices,” she says. 

Explain to your partner why and plan to change your eating habits. Explain why this is important to you and how small  changes in your diet can make a difference while still making a more sustainable difference than big changes. 

Health Goal: Exercise regularly 

Goal Threat! 

You spend too much time behind the screen. After watching everything on Netflix and scouring Instagram, the sofa now has a butt-shaped dent. I'm trying to change this sedentary habit by taking daily walks and  motivating group fitness  twice a week. 

But all other cases had to be cut. Your best friend thinks you're spending too much time training. She says "you're overdoing it" or "you're going to hurt yourself" or even "fitness for the young." It's no use. It also informs you that your previous fitness decision was canceled within a few weeks. 

Fix  In general, it is difficult when a supportive friend is negative about your health choices. First of all, consider why she's having a hard time with your new exercise regimen. Does she miss the time you usually spend together? Or do you think weight loss is everything? You can explain to her the mood and health benefits of regular exercise. 

Then ask  her to help lift her to the side. Tell her that it will be a great team for her. Being able to train together is more fun and gives you a better chance to reach your goals. 

Have a healthy vacation. 

Party, feasting, and frivolity can make it a holiday season when you struggle to reach your new health goals. Try these vacation tips: Stock up on 

delicious soft drinks or flavored sodas so you can enjoy drinks with friends without any fuss. 

Choose your own snack. If you focus on enjoying  one or two of your favorite foods, like chocolate and Christmas cake,  you may not pamper yourself overall. 

Track how much you eat and drink instead of constantly snacking and filling a half-empty glass. 

On non-social days, feast on healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 

HOW TO ACHIEVE YOUR HEALTH GOALS 

Although we have done our best to explain the motivations for developing healthy habits, some loved ones will still not change their attitudes. How can you stay motivated without their support? Follow our 7 step guide. 

Clearly Defined Goal Setting Goals should be realistic, specific and measurable, start small. For example, you can take a short walk every day or skip one takeaway meal a week. 

Goal Tracking Once you have a measurable goal, find a way to track it. It can be as easy as using an app or keeping a diary. 

FIND FRIENDS If your partner or best friend isn't applying, find someone  to support you. Talk to a colleague about your new health journey, or ask them to join a fitness group at your local gym or  pool. You can also sign up for healthy cuisine.