Three Steps to Sustained Change
Planning change is exciting, but integrating it—like starting a 3-month Unplugged Plan—is the real work. I’ve learned that pushing through the initial discomfort requires building a robust system, not relying on willpower, especially while managing long-term health challenges.
Here are the three practical strategies I use to bridge the gap between intention and daily practice:
1. The Power of Habit Stacking
Instead of forcing a new habit, attach it to an existing one. The old routine acts as the prompt for the new one.
Meditation Stack: Immediately after my morning coffee.
Movement Stack: My 15–60 minute walk flows directly out of my strength workout cool-down.
Learning Stack: Dedicated learning time occurs right before I turn off my main devices for my designated “phone-free” zone.
2. The “Vegan Bowl” Mindset: Simplify and Assemble
I simplify complex goals by mastering a few core building blocks, just like I do with my vegan diet. Focus on 5–7 go-to actions or concepts to master first.
Hydroponics Mastery: Instead of learning the whole system, I focus on mastering one nutrient mix, one seed-starting method, and one pruning technique at a time.
Meal Prep Block: I focus on mastering just 5–7 go-to meals and associated prep blocks (like prepping legumes or grains) for minimal waste and consistent vegan nutrition.
3. The Anchor of Reflection and Review
Routine can become unconscious, so I must pause and assess.
Website Posting: My bi-weekly post on www.livingprocess.ca/ forces me to articulate and review my progress on the unplugged plan and my Foundational Well-being goals.
The Check-In: This reflection acknowledges the discomfort of change and ensures my routines adapt to my physical health constraints.
Conclusion: The Process is the Progress
By focusing on simple systems—stacking, simplifying, and reflecting—we transform the awkwardness of change into new capabilities. We learn to navigate both chosen changes and unexpected major health issues with grace.
What single “building block” are you working to master this week? Share your approach in the comments below.
Be Kind 💚 🤟 Be Grateful 💚 🤟
Being the Change 🌎