Healthy Lifestyle Self-Improvement Tips
By Scott Sarran, M.D.
Lutheran General Fitness Center

Many patients are frustrated because, despite their best intentions, they seem unable to adhere to an exercise or "diet" program. Actually, there are several proven strategies that can be used to help us be successful in our efforts to improve an aspect of our lifestyle.

First, make a plan and make sure it fits your lifestyle. For example, if you're planning on beginning an exercise program, think ahead about how you're going to carve out the time in your already busy life. In this respect, anything you can do to make the exercise program a regular, daily part of your routine will be helpful.

It's often a good idea to ask those around you to help you in your endeavors. Anything you can do to help assure the support of your family, friends and co-workers will increase the odds of success. Remember that most of the changes you make, whether changing what you prefer to eat, or changing your schedule to include exercise, will affect those around you. One of the best examples of this is the difficulty that smokers have trying to quit when those around them are smoking.

Lastly, try to build on small successes. For example, someone who has not exercised in years should plan on successfully running a block, or a mile, and celebrating those achievements, before planning on a marathon.