Ask Lauren: How to Get Back on Track with a Healthy Lifestyle

I’ve had so much fun answering your questions all August long and encourage you all to keep submitting them. You never know when another Ask Lauren post might pop up! That being said, let’s get to a multi-part question that will close out this month’s theme. Here’s what one of my readers had to say…

Hi Lauren! What do you do when you’ve found that you’ve fallen off track with working out and eating right? More specifically, what helps you get back on track other than “just doing it?” Do you have a way to motivate yourself and plan for the next week?

Let me begin by saying that I don’t consider myself to be a fitness or wellness guru. Over the years I’ve developed healthy routines and have found workout classes that I enjoy, so I’m speaking from that place today. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve fallen off the bandwagon when it comes to working out and keeping to a strict, healthy diet. I find that I mostly kick myself back into gear when I know I have a big photoshoot coming up, however day-to-day life isn’t always as motivating as standing in front of a camera. There are a few things that come to mind when I think about jumpstarting a healthy lifestyle, starting with making a plan (and sticking to it). Following goals is so much easier when you write or type them out. Write your workouts on a calendar and cross them off as you go. Write out grocery lists and don’t deviate from the beaten path when you walk down the aisles at the store. If you plan ahead instead of flying by the seat of your pants, chances are you’re more likely to stick with what you set out to do.

Now let’s talk about meal prep. Not only does planning healthy meals save you time throughout the week, but it can also help you stick to your healthy eating goals. I know I’m way less likely to eat out when I know that I have home-cooked food waiting for me.

Lastly, sign up for a workout. This might sound like a no-brainer, but when I pay for a workout class I feel guilty skipping because I’ve already committed. If you skip it, you’re missing out on endorphins and wasting money in the process. If that doesn’t get your booty to the gym, I don’t know what will.

Ultimately, let your own health and wellness be your motivation. I know that it can be difficult to keep up with a healthy lifestyle, but you’ll be so happy that you did.

How do you keep yourself on track?

I’d love to hear your tips and tricks in the comments!

XO Lauren

Photos: Kelly LeVeque via The Little Market

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