A visual comparison showcasing unhealthy and healthy meal options, highlighting the positive changes brought about by a plant-based lifestyle

How To Make A New Year’s Resolution That Sticks

Written by in Lifestyle

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our aspirations and set intentions for the journey ahead. For many of us, pursuing a whole food plant-based lifestyle might be a goal we’re considering. I’ve been there—taking that first step and committing to this lifestyle was transformative, leading me to shed 170 pounds and embrace a healthier, more vibrant life.

Setting goals is not just about resolutions; it’s about being intentional with our desires and aspirations. So, let’s dive into the world of setting goals and initiating changes that can bring about remarkable transformations.

Setting Smart Goals for a Whole Food Plant-Based Lifestyle

1. Define Your Vision

Start by visualizing where you want to be. Is it incorporating more veggies, losing weight, or embracing a fully plant-based diet? Start by writing down your list of goals. I like to use the S.M.A.R.T. method to help achieve my goals.

2. SMART Goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound

  • Specific: Define precisely what you want to achieve.
  • Measurable: Set metrics to track progress.
  • Achievable: How can the goal be accomplished?
  • Relevant: Align your goals with your desires.
  • Time-Bound: Set a timeframe for achieving each goal.

3. Tips from My Journey

Over the years, these are some of the tools that helped me in my health journey.

  • Start Small: Swap one meal a day with a plant-based alternative.
  • Join a Supportive Community: Our free Clean Food Mama Facebook Group offers encouragement and camaraderie from other women on a similar journey.
  • Journal Your Progress: Writing down your goals and daily achievements helps maintain focus.
  • Gradual Transition: Don’t rush; allow yourself to adapt gradually.
  • Progress over Perfection: Remember that progress over perfection wins every time.

Me in July 2023 Me in February 2019

This post may contain affiliate links. See our Disclosure Policy for details.

Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet

Starting a plant-based journey can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Begin by incorporating small changes into your routine:

  • Swap Recipes: Replace one favorite dish with a plant-based version each week.
  • Explore New Ingredients: Experiment with diverse fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
  • Meal Planning: Simplify the transition by planning your meals in advance.
whole food plant based diet, whole foods, plant based diet, plant forward diet, plant based lifestyle, plant based, oil free cooking, oil free baking, fruits and vegetables

Defining Your Goals: Personalizing Your Plant-Based Journey

1. Reflect and Determine Your Priorities

  • Take a moment to ponder what matters most to you. What aspect of a plant-based lifestyle resonates with your heart? Is it health, sustainability, or both?

2. Tailoring Your Goals

  • Eating More Plants: If incorporating more plant-based meals is your focus, set goals to include a specific number of servings per day or week.
  • Transitioning to Plant-Based: Planning to go fully plant-based? Break down your transition into manageable steps—start with one meal a day, then progress gradually.
  • Targeted Health Objectives: Whether it’s weight loss, reducing sodium intake, or any specific health concern, define your goals clearly.

3. Actionable Steps to Achieve Your Goals

  • Breaking it Down: Divide your goals into daily, weekly, or monthly targets—whatever suits your pace and preference.
  • Goal Trackers: Click [here] to access our goal setting trackers to monitor and celebrate your progress.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Each step forward is a victory. Celebrate and acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small.
  • Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. This journey is about progress, not perfection. Embrace the learning curve and have fun exploring new recipes and ingredients.

Deepening Your Journey with Our Meal Planner Membership

If you’re looking for comprehensive support and guidance, consider joining our Meal Planner Membership. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Delicious Recipes: Curated recipes tailored to a whole food plant-based lifestyle.
  • Curated Shopping Lists: Streamline your grocery shopping for hassle-free meal preparation.
  • Monthly Coaching: Receive guidance and tips from someone who’s been on this journey.
  • Community Support: Connect with other like-minded women on a similar journey.

Setting Intentions: Questions to Ask Yourself

As you embark on this journey, consider:

  • What motivates me to adopt a plant-based lifestyle?
  • How can I make this transition sustainable and enjoyable?
  • What support do I need to stay committed?

Words of the Year and Being Intentional

Resolutions might fade, but setting an overarching theme for the year can provide constant guidance. Consider choosing a word that resonates with your intentions—words like ‘nourish,’ ‘balance,’ or ‘growth.’

Remember, success in this journey isn’t just about what you eat; it’s about the intentions you set, the support you seek, and the determination to thrive.

Our community and meal planner membership are here to assist you every step of the way.

Here’s to a year filled with vibrant health, delicious plant-based meals, and achieving the goals you set for yourself.

Wishing you a wonderful journey ahead,

 

 

Stephanie Collazo, MS, CHC is the founder of Clean Food Mama, to help you get more plants into your diet. She shed 170 lbs by incorporating a whole foods plant-based diet and loves empowering other women to create healthy habits for themselves and their families.

Comments are closed.