Vacations can be the biggest challenge to sticking with a diet or exercise
program, and many people simply don't do it. But practicing healthy habits
on vacation may not be as difficult as you may think.
Let's face it. Almost all of us have a hard time sticking with our diet and
exercise while we're on vacation. In fact many of us simply don't' even try.
There is nothing wrong with taking a break from your healthy habits but, the
research shows that if you can keep the health habits going to some degree
on vacation you are more likely to stick with it in the long run. The most
important point is that you don't need to completely throw in the towel just
because you are on vacation.
Sticking with your healthy habits weather diet, exercise or even taking
medication requires you to do just a bit of planning before you go. Where
most folks go wrong is that they fail to plan, and then assume they will
figure out what to do once on vacation- oh no. that is too late. You need to
revamp before you go and have a healthy habit strategy specifically for the
vacation. My SMARTTM system can serve as your guide.
So let's work through
the SMARTTM...
Set Vacation Goals
1. First you need retool your goals- set goals for diet and exercise
specifically for the vacation. For example, if dessert is your thing, eat
it 2 or 3 times on a week-long vacation instead of every day. (2) You can
also set a goal for maintaining your exercise., choose a few days in which
you can get in a walk or plan to take a short walk each morning before you
start the day. These aren't what you would do at home but they will keep you
going. I want you to write these goals down on a piece of paper.)
Monitor Your Actions
2. Next, you need to monitor your actions. Bring a note pad and a pen.
Simply write down the days you exercised, the days you ate desert- whatever
your goals are.
Arrange For Success Before You Leave
3. Third, you'll need to arrange for success. Make a list of those things
that you need to do to succeed. - Maybe it's to bring healthy snacks, maybe
it's to pick some restaurants ahead of time. Here's a real simple one. Pack
your workout clothes (and shoes) at the top of your suitcase. I promise you
they will remind you to get the workouts in.
Recruit a Vacation Support Team
4. Fourth, you're going to want to recruit support. If you are traveling
with someone- see if you can get them to join you in your health goals. If not, at least let them know that you need their support. While on vacation,
look for folks who are also exercising - they can make great support
systems.
Treat Yourself for Sticking With It
5. Finally, treat yourself. Decide on a reward ahead of time that you will
have only if you accomplish your goal. No cheating on this one.
That's it-this little bit of preparation is going to help you n avoid the
post-vacation rut by making sure that you just have good memories from your
vacation, and not the consequences of leaving your healthy habits at home.