Change Is Good

Discover simple ways to refresh your plan and your outlook.

Article By: Amanda Genge

As the old saying goes, “Variety is the spice of life.” But did you know that changing things up can also help you reach your weight-loss goals? Periodically varying your routine — even a little bit — keeps things interesting so you’re more likely to stick with healthy behaviors like this month’s routine: Walk at least five minutes each hour. For example, you might choose to walk up and down a flight of steps, or do a quick lap around the office, or pace the sidelines while you're at your kid’s little league game. And like with all the other healthy behaviors you've been practicing, the best way to get comfortable with change is to start small. Maybe sit in a different seat at your meeting this week. Although this is a minor adjustment, the new vantage point (and new “neighbors”) might encourage you to re-engage and re-focus.
Mix it up!
Although we can all benefit from adding a little variety to our daily routine, if you’re a creature of habit (hey, you're not alone!) moving out of your comfort zone might feel a bit awkward, at first. And that's OK. Remember, start small. There are lots of little things you can do to change up your regular routine a bit. And none of them require tons of time, effort or money. The ideas below can help get you started. (Some are pretty straightforward — like changing the time of day you work out. While others might be a bit unexpected — like grilling your dinner on a cold night.) Pick at least one to try this week. And keep the ones you enjoy in regular rotation.

1. Become an “Iron Chef” at home. Pick a few random ingredients from your pantry, fridge or freezer (heck, be brave and ask your kids to select them). Then plug the ingredients into Find and Explore Recipes to get ideas and come up with a plan-friendly meal on the fly.
2. Have a flashback family fitness day. Ban all electronics! Grab a jump rope, draw a hopscotch board on the sidewalk, play a game of kickball, tag, Twister, or run a 3-legged relay race or have a go at any other fun kid-friendly activity.
3. Drive a different route to the office. You might discover a park or path on the way where you can go for a post-workday power walk.
4. Give someone a compliment. It can be a friend, coworker, or a stranger on the street. You’ll feel good about making someone else feel good! Random acts of kindness are also wonderful ways to lift the giver's and receiver's spirits!
5. Enjoy breakfast for dinner. Morning comfort foods like eggs, pancakes, French toast and frittatas are cheap, easy and satisfying. On the flipside, try having more typical “dinner” food (even leftovers) for breakfast.
6. Read a book instead of spending time in front of a screen. Forgo the TV, computer, tablet or smartphone in favor of some old-school page turning. Dig up an old favorite you haven’t read in years or hit up the library to check out something new. Kudos if you stand up while you read!