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I'm Sarah Bernier Olin, a stress reduction and meditation expert.
January 1st isn't the only time of year when you may want to hit the reset button on your
healthy living resolutions. Whenever you've strayed from your path to eating right, exercising
de-stressing or getting enough sleep, no need to fret. Just step in and become your own
change coach.
No one knows you better than you do. So start by focusing on one personal or professional
goal that might move the needle on your life outlook. Maybe it's losing weight, getting
promoted, or spending more time with family or friends. Now brainstorm three small steps
that might get you closer to what you're after.
Then experiment. Try out one small step at a time. Notice how it contributes to your
goals. Take time to reflect with curiosity -- not judgment -- on whether you'd try
that step again. Make adjustments and experiment with another small step. Consider jotting
notes in a journal as you go.
If you get stuck being your own coach, don't be afraid to get help from someone you trust.
See if, together, you can identify where you could refocus your energy and make a commitment
to work towards the life you want. Maybe the solution is staring you right in the face
-- like recruiting a workout buddy or preparing your weekly meals on Sundays. The perspective
of an outsider is sometimes all you need to jumpstart the change you want.
So go ahead -- be your own coach. Break your goals down, let go of perfection, and practice,
practice, practice. You may find that making small, doable changes in one area will benefit
other aspects of your life -- your work, your home life, your community—yourself.