Something people don’t consider strongly enough is just how much of getting healthy and fit is in their head. Most people assume incorrectly that if they do enough exercise, they will lose weight. They also assume that they can eat anything they want as long as they do so in moderation. If moderation worked, nobody would be overweight because it would be so easy to execute!

The most important thing for anyone undertaking a healthy lifestyle is to erase negativity. Thinking about or focusing on the things you can no longer or should no longer be eating is negative thinking. Instead, here are some things I’ve done to erase negativity and embrace my healthier lifestyle:

• Make a list of foods you CAN eat. You’ll be surprised at how much food you love and already eat you can continue to eat while losing weight and getting healthy.
• Stock your pantry and refrigerator with good foods and whole ingredients. Having snacks or food that’s good for you to begin with make it easier to focus on the positives of cooking healthier foods.
• When you have a craving or false appetite, think of something you enjoy that is a healthier option: nuts, fruits, or even some jerky or a slice of bacon will often do the trick.
• Fake it until you make it. If you find yourself being negative, literally pretend everything is okay and that any negativity you are feeling is fake and force yourself to think happy thoughts. This sounds corny and ridiculous, but it works! This is how I got myself to enjoy running. Every time I would feel the dread of an upcoming run, I would instead force myself to be happy about it. I didn’t even think of positive aspects; literally, just forced myself to be happy. The craziest part: it worked.

Your mind is your strongest asset when adopting a healthy lifestyle. It’s up to you to make yourself succeed by having a positive mindset to push through and persevere. Getting healthy isn’t easy, but it can be made easier by having a good attitude.