every january, you make a new year’s resolution to get healthy. every february, that resolution is already long forgotten. and if you happen to travel before january has even come to a close, then chances are even higher than your resolutions will bite the dust. everyone knows it’s nearly impossible to stick to even a well-established healthy routine while traveling.
but you know what? this year, things can be different as long you use the power of science to stick to your new healthy habits. even if you’re traveling to, say, san diego for the farmers open (january 28-31), all you have to do is follow these science-backed tips to help you keep your new year’s health resolutions.
1. make your goal smart.
that stands for specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and trackable. in other words, don’t just say, “i want to eat healthy.” that’s too vague. instead, set a concrete goal, like “i want to fit into my favorite pants again.” it’ll give you a clear vision to work toward.
2. break your big goal down into small goals.
let’s say you want to drop a waist size by the end of the month. think about the little things you’ll have to do daily to make that happen – like working out for a half-hour, or eating a healthy lunch.
3. check in with a partner.
social contagion theory states that the people we surround ourselves with influence our behavior. so having lunch with a supportive friend who has healthy habits will make it easier for you to order the salad instead of the greasy cheeseburger.
4. find a way to have fun.
if you enjoy what you’re doing, you’re more likely to do it, right? so pick workouts that you look forward to – like a morning jog or a sunset surf – at home and while you’re traveling. and vary up your meals with interesting flavor combinations – like those you’ll find in our avoberry salad.
5. don’t let one slip-up stop your progress.
studies show that it takes, on average, around three months for a new habit to become automatic. so in those early weeks, while you’re still getting used to healthy living, you’ll inevitably encounter a moment (or two) of weakness. and that’s okay. just dust yourself off and get back on that horse.
6. set yourself up for success.
“out of sight, out of mind” is a proven psychological phenomenon, so clean out your kitchen pantry and toss the junk food in the trash to avoid giving in to sudden cravings. then stock your fridge with fresh fruits and veggies, and scout out local eateries for healthy, delicious meal options. (related: have you seen our menu?)
7. reward yourself for a job well done.
if you reach your small goals every day for a week, why not indulge in something fun, like a massage or a movie? giving yourself these extrinsic rewards to look forward to can help motivate you to stay committed to your goals.
8. stay flexible.
it can be hard to make healthy choices when your routine is thrown off, so it’s important to allow for contingencies while keeping your end goal at the front of your mind. let’s say you’re an out-of-towner who’s here in san diego for the farmers open. you’re not obligated to fill up on fatty food every night in the fan village. why not swing by bfd instead? not only will you spend time in one of san diego’s coolest neighborhoods, but you’ll also get to feel good about noshing on our delectable and healthy menu offerings.
big front door is consistently recognized as one of the best eateries in university heights. our menu provides plenty of delicious options that will fill you up and make you sing while also helping you keep those new year’s resolutions on track.