Personal development can mean many things depending on where you are in life. You may decide to work on your interpersonal relationships, develop new talents or even a new career. One aspect of personal development is one that many people desire the development of improved health, fitness and looks. Below, you will find a few tips that will help you get started toward a healthier, fabulous you!
Health
If you are one of the many people who put off medical visits, or physical exams, your first step in getting healthier is to make an appointment with your physician. It is important to get a baseline of where you are currently. This typically means blood work, which can tell your doctor a great deal about your health. Your doctor may also recommend any age-appropriate health screenings you may need, including mammogram, diabetes screening, and the dreaded colonoscopy. These things may seem tedious, to be sure, but you cannot become the healthy person you want to be without first knowing where you are.
Diet
Once you’ve been to the doctor, I’m sure you will walk away with a few things to work on. I usually do. For me it’s my cholesterol and weight. Do you need to lose a few pounds? Extra weight can put you at risk for many dangerous health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke and even sleep apnea. You can reduce these risks by adopting healthier eating habits that are right for you. You do not have to follow a diet plan to lose weight. For me, I’m carbohydrate intolerant. That means no breads (my favorite fresh from the oven – ugh), no pasta, no sugar, mostly leafy greens and increased healthy fats. Basically, I follow a Keto diet and it works for me. For you, it may mean an entirely different eating plan. You and your doctor can decide which is best for you. As you improve your diet, the pounds will come off easily, and painlessly. Once I found the right foods for my body it certainly did for me.
Exercise
You cannot achieve total fitness without implementing some type of exercise plan. For me, walking works best. It’s something I can do and I don’t require any special equipment except for a good pair of shoes. If you are overweight, walking is a great way to start and is one of the best exercises available. As you gain strength, stamina and weight loss, you may wish to join a gym, yoga class, or exercise class where you can get fitter. Finding a buddy, or workout partner can eliminate some of the drudgery of exercising alone. Besides, a workout buddy helps keep you accountable.
Your Look
When was the last time you tried a new hair cut, color, or perm? What about treating yourself to a day at the spa as a reward for your new body and all the hard work you’ve done? How about a facial or manicure? Simple things can help you feel really great about your new look and you don’t have to spend a lot of money to keep your spirits up.
Wardrobe
Take a look in your closet. When was the last time you revamped your wardrobe? After you have lost some weight, and are in better physical condition, it is the perfect time to focus on your outward appearance. Especially now that your clothes are loose. You can only cinch up that belt so much you know. Are your clothes modern and stylish, or are they old, outdated and the wrong size? Maybe you hate shopping (I do). It may be time to go on a fun shopping spree with a friend, daughter, or sister/brother, to create a new wardrobe that will complement your new look. Be brave, try bold colors and trendy styles. You may even be surprised that you now fit into smaller sizes! AND have fun!
Creating a new look for yourself is an important phase in your personal development plan. No matter where you are, when you are self-confident, and pleased with the way you look and feel, you will be ready to tackle new goals and achievements in your life!
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