Last week, I confessed my unhealthy “sins,” so as the next step, I’m making a vow to stop denying things.  Now, I’m talking about more than just admitting that my bad habits have caused my pants to be snug — what I mean is that I’m going to stop focusing on what I won’t do, and instead reaffirm what I will do in very specific terms.

Focus on the positive when making goals!

Why am I making this change? Well, for one thing, saying what I won’t do hasn’t exactly worked, has it? For another, it’s just not in my nature to think about the negative all of the time (though I have my moments — just ask my husband).

Therefore, this week, instead of saying, “I won’t have any cheese or chips,” I’ll say “I’m going to eat five fruits and vegetables a day at least three days.”  While this specific example may seem too subtle to make a difference, in the long run, it will help me make progress toward overall good health. I know from previous experience that when I fill up on fruits and veggies, I tend to feel satisfied and I no longer make snap decisions that lead to poor food choices.

So, in addition to the statement above, here are several other things I will do from now until the next time I “weigh in” with you:

• I will exercise to a DVD for 30 minutes at least two times
• I will walk one mile at lunch once
• Each day, I will spend at least 30 minutes doing something that helps me unwind and limit stress (TV doesn’t count)

There you have it. They’re baby steps, but I won’t succeed if I try to change everything at once. I promise to report back honestly next Tuesday. Wish me luck!

Photo Credit: Hand – Sanja Gjenero; Check – Ivan Prole