Identifying Triggers
Identifying your triggers when engaging in unhealthy activity is also extremely important. This way the root cause of the behavior can be addressed. Creating a plan for either avoiding or minimizing the effects of the triggers can also be very useful.
Piers Steel, Ph.D. in The Procrastination Equation says
‘that our minds will often play tricks on us, soothingly telling us, “Just this once”. Of course, it never is. That primrose path leads downhill, and on each step are inscribed the words “only one more.” However, knowing when and where your willpower tends to fail is extremely useful. It helps us avoid the situations that tempt us in the first place. Dieters pack brown-bag lunches, not only to control what they eat but also to shut out all the temptations that fill a food court. Ex-smokers learn to avoid their old hangouts, because it is here that the desire to light up becomes overwhelming. That's why some people learn to pack their exercise clothing in their cars - they know that going directly to the gym from work is a good habit. If they first went home, it would be too easy to say “tomorrow”.’
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can be a nifty way of acknowledging ideal behavior or lifestyle choices. Some people enjoy incorporating a reward system to inspire motivation. Leading a healthy lifestyle is usually not easier at first, but as you begin to feel better and better it becomes a way of life. Reward yourself in a healthy way along the journey. As an example, for giving up coffee, for lets say a week, you could buy yourself some flowers or go to lunch with a friend.