You don’t have to overhaul your lifestyle to reach your health goals. The key to success is to think small.

Most of us want to look better, feel better and be healthier. But it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the idea of change. That’s because we tend to think of the goals we need to set or the steps we need to take as big. Well, I’ve got some good news: you don’t have to overhaul your life, or subject yourself to the latest fad diet. Making small changes is the key to transforming your life and finding long-term success. If you’re ready to start living a healthier lifestyle, I encourage you to keep your goals S.M.A.L.L.

S: Specific

Instead of saying you’re going to “eat more vegetables,” zero in on a specific action 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, you’ll want to 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. I like to 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: Livable

Ask yourself if you can really live with the changes you are making. 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 square of dark chocolate a few times a week.

L: Luscious

You shouldn’t feel deprived or have to sacrifice flavor when eating better. Make sure the good-for-you-foods you choose are also delicious and satisfying, like my Asian Noodle Bowl with Peanut Dressing or White Bean Chicken Chili.

To give this idea a try, I encourage you to set three small goals for yourself this month. I’d love to hear how these little changes make a big impact on your health. Let me know in the comments section.