Healthy living starts with getting through a lot of mental barriers and deciding that healthy pursuits are worth the effort. That’s what we at EXOS call “Mindset,” and it’s an essential pillar of our human performance philosophy. How do you change the way you’ve always thought about yourself and your ability to become the healthiest version of you? We recommend these three essential steps to developing a healthy mindset.

Let it go

What’s in the past doesn’t affect your future unless you choose to dwell on it. Those fad diets and exercise trends, missed goals and disappointments of the past are important lessons. Take back your power to change the future by letting go and starting fresh. Every day can be the first day of a new you! Make the decision to start.

Take the first step

Now that you’re ready to shake off what’s holding you back, stay accountable by taking the first step. That will mean different things for different people, but make sure your first step is one that’s reasonable and sustainable. Try out a new group exercise class, start a walking group with friends, or exchange one healthy habit for a less-than-healthy habit, and stick with it for a while before you change lots of other things. The philosopher Sun Tzu said, “The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step,” so don’t wait. Take that first step today, and in a short time you’ll look back and see just how far you’ve come.

Make room for grace

Progress is not a linear journey. It’s full of ups and downs and important lessons that can help us grow, and we’re the only ones standing in our way. In the course of any major change there will be setbacks and missteps, so decide now that you’ll pick yourself up and keep moving forward if you stumble. That one piece of wedding cake or a week of vacation without exercise won’t end your journey to better health. It’s just a bump, and you’ll get through it and meet your goals if you give yourself grace and space to be a work in progress.

Get started today developing a healthy mindset and a plan for positive action. Mercy Fitness Center members receive a complimentary Individual Wellness Pathway, 30 days of first steps. Set your feet on the path to total health with an introduction to the fitness center, guided goal-setting, mindset development and all the benefits of membership. Join today!