10 tips for a spring refresh
Yes, even right now.
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We’ve all had days, weeks, or even months where we’ve fallen off course. (Now more than ever, life happens.) And while we’ve worked to create and adapt to our new normal, keeping up our healthy habits may not have been the number one priority. And that’s OK! Sure, spring might look a little different this year, but there are still plenty of ways to see it as an opportunity for a clean slate.
3 fast facts
Studies show that we feel more capable, energized, and excited about making changes when we have a clean slate. It’s called the Fresh Start Effect, a phenomenon that can help us get back on track after a slip.
Once we’re ready to start fresh, it’s best to set goals—and evaluate our progress—based on actions (like staying within our SmartPoints® Budget) instead of outcomes (like weight loss).
When starting fresh, you’re shifting your focus from any potential “slip” to opportunities to learn, grow, and keep moving forward. This is called a growth mindset.
This week’s technique
Pick a day to start fresh and try one strategy below at a time. The Fresh Start Effect has been found to be especially helpful when it’s tied to a specific day—the first of the month, the beginning of the week, a birthday, or a new season.
Spring clean (your mind). It’s normal to worry about the future. Write down your thoughts and jot down steps you can take to refocus. It’ll help you process them and move forward.
Spring clean (your home). Tackling your living space—or even just one closet—can energize you. Being productive in one area of your life can also raise your productivity level in other areas. Plus, who doesn’t like living in a newly freshened-up home?
Set up your space. Make healthy routines easier by leaving your yoga mat next to the TV or cutting up fruits and veggies so you don’t have to think about snacktime.
Track smarter. Pre-track this week’s meals so you know what you’re eating ahead of time—or set daily reminders to track on your phone.
Get creative with activity. Choose an Aaptiv audio workout in the WW app to do at home or find an online class ideal for small spaces.
Go back to basics. Look back at your first Success Planner. What helped when you started? Do it again!
Focus your intentions. Reflect on what a new beginning means to you—and what you want to accomplish during this time.
Step on the scale. But before you do that, take a moment to focus on one NSV (non-scale victory) from the past week. Keeping it in mind as you weigh yourself will help you remember that the number is only one part of the bigger picture.
Try to head outside. We know that outdoor space might not look the same for everyone. (We see you, apartment people.) If you do have breathing room, take advantage of warmer weather by planting a garden or coloring with chalk. Staying inside? Prop open a window and settle in with a good book. This helps you remember to balance getting back on track with time for fun.
Prioritize your progress. Live Virtual Workshops are a great way to connect with your WW community and Coach—and get back into a routine. You can even log in early for a Wellness Check-in with your Guide. We’ll see you there!
