June 30 - Celebrate your Success:
Eren Sanborn |
06/26/2015
Behavior change is often a long and challenging process, but it should
also be rewarding. Besides the intrinsic benefits that come from feeling
better and reaching your goals, rewarding your efforts will reinforce
your new habits and inspire you to continue your journey. Today, take
some time to celebrate your accomplishments and the changes you have made
throughout the month. Even a small success is worth recognizing because
it’s the small changes that lead to big results.
There are lots of effective and motivating ways to help facilitate change
and reward good behaviors. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Set goals and rewards for short, mid-range and long term change.
2. Reward the positives! Do not punish yourself for slip-ups.
3. Celebrate small and big accomplishments.
4. Tell others about your success.
5. Re-evaluate your goals and rewards periodically, change them as needed.
6. As the new behavior becomes habit, reduce the rewards for it.
Take your time when deciding how you will celebrate meeting your short,
mid- and long term goals. Everyone is different and your rewards should
be personalized! One person may work their butt off for a relaxing pedicure,
when another would prefer a day trip adventure. Choose something that
excites you and makes you feel good. Here are some examples of appropriate rewards.
Goal: losing 15 pounds in three months
Short-term goal: attending the gym two times a week
Reward: one hour of guilt free TV at night
Mid-range goal: attending the gym twice a week for a month
Reward: treat yourself to a massage or spa day
Long-term goal: losing 15 pounds
Reward: buying a new workout outfit
