To reach your health goals, it isn’t necessary to completely change your lifestyle. The key to success is to think small.

Most of us want to look better, feel better and be healthier. However, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the idea of change. We tend to think of the goals we need to set or the steps we need to take as big. Here’s some good news: you don’t have to overhaul your life, or subject yourself to the latest diet. Making small changes is the key to transforming your life and finding long-term success. Keep your goals S.M.A.L.L.

S: Specific
Instead of saying you’re going to eat more vegetables, make it specific, like “I’m going to eat a vegetable at every meal”.

M: Measurable
Make sure you can measure your success on a daily basis. While your overall goal might be to lose 10 pounds, think about what action you can take each day to get there. For example, going for a brisk walk each night after dinner.

A: Attainable
Set goals that are challenging but are still reachable. Use a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being effortless and 5 being an overwhelming struggle. Try to set goals that feel like a 3.

L: Liveable
Ask yourself if you can really live with the changes you make. If the answer is no, adjust them so they feel like a change you can stick with for the long term. If you’re a chocolate lover, don’t swear off chocolate forever. Instead indulge in moderation, maybe enjoying a square of dark chocolate a few times a week.

L: Luscious
You shouldn’t feel deprived or have to sacrifice flavour when eating better. Make sure the good foods you choose are delicious and satisfying.

Give this idea a try and set three small goals for yourself this month. Let us know how it’s going in the comment section.