MM Nutrition

3 Ways to Stay Focused: Healthy Eating

Focus is not a singular skill, but a series of strategies employed to streamline the desired behavior. The following three strategies may not be fail-proof, but they go a long way in enhancing focus.

1. Optimize your environment. Consider what you can modify at home and at work- do you need to remove certain foods from your home, or change where you spend time at work?

Whether it’s avoiding the office breakroom or making a concerted effort to not buy snack foods, it’s easier to engage in healthy habits in a healthy environment.

2. Social supports. Consider who in your life is already a supportive ally: this may be a friend, family member, coworker, or hired professional. Also consider who (even unintentionally) may be supportive of your health goals, and consider communicating assertively, politely, and often regarding your needs.

At the very least, consider changing the environments and contexts in which you spend time with those parties.

3. Regular reflection and tracking. Implement systems that engage you in regular reflection and tracking. Whether you elect to spend one evening each week journaling on your goals or taking your weight at the beginning of each week, regular tracking gives you the ability to stay engaged over time.