Sometimes finding the motivation to ‘eat right’ can be challenging… especially when your body is used to enjoying high fat and sugary foods on a regular basis.  Creating a healthy lifestyle doesn’t happen over night… it’s a slow process that is definitely worth the effort.

Here’s the thing about me, I love healthy food.  I love fresh green veggies, sweet baby carrots, steamed sweet potatoes, succulent grilled salmon, crisp Fuji apples, rich dark chocolate… the list goes on and on.   But ‘craving’ genuinely healthy foods didn’t happen ‘overnight’.  My taste buds have changed over time to become more accustomed to (and actually prefer) healthier foods that nourish my body.

That being said, I don’t eat ALL healthy foods simply because they’re healthy.  You’ll rarely find me mixing nasty-flavored protein powder, chomping celery, or drinking carrot juice (which I thought I’d love… but actually hate).  The point is, I’ve tried tried lots of healthy foods.  Some I don’t care for and I’ve found some that I really DO love.

So maybe you can’t foresee yourself sipping a kale smoothie any time soon, but you wouldn’t be opposed to munching on some freshly made kale chips.  Or maybe you hate the texture of fresh broccoli, but wouldn’t mind it steamed with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.  Maybe you can’t stand the smell of fish, but you you’d really enjoy a piece of grilled chicken breast.  Super dark chocolate may be ‘too bitter’ for you.  That’s okay, try a small piece of 60% and work your way up.  Maybe you NEED your AM coffee, but how about trying it with just one packet of sugar instead of three, and why not a splash of vanilla almond milk instead of full-fat cream?

The point is, when you begin to take “baby steps” toward a healthier lifestyle, it doesn’t feel so extreme.  It can actually be fun!  It’s a challenge… and you feel better because each step you take is one step closer to a healthier you!

So for today’s motivation, forget the strict crash diets that promise you’ll drop 5 pounds by the weekend, instead work towards a healthier life that’s reasonable, maintainable, and enjoyable!   After all, healthy life is all about “progress, NOT perfection!”

How about you?  What are the little steps you’re taking to live a healthier lifestyle?  What keeps you motivated?