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danilapetrova profile image
Danila Petrova

Well, I have to admit you make great points.

As far as making multiple small changes at a time, I see what you mean. There is a time to do just that, try out a few things and see what sticks and what is more of an inconvenience than anything else.

My advice goes more for big changes that each deserve their own attention. For example, while making a complete change in diet could be very beneficial to getting healthy, if you couple that with insane amounts of workouts and strict sleeping schedule (each healthy in moderation)- chances are you will reach a burnout that is a long way from being healthy.

I also agree with you on the necessity to take a break to recharge and start fresh. I personally reached burnout and week-long migraines because I was too stubborn to work full time along with the university. While it is doable, a couple of paid leaves, strategically placed throughout the year are godsent to maintaining health, along with responsibilities.

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practicingdev profile image
Practicing Developer

I agree, if you're trying to hit three different goals at once (improve sleep, workout, and diet) you will end up overwhelmed.

Instead my approach would be to pick one of those things, like "improve sleep" and then design a bunch of changes around that.

  • Buy blackout curtains
  • Improve bedding / bed if possible
  • Stay off the screen an hour before bed
  • Brew a cup of chamomile tea shortly before bed
  • Sit by a window and get some sunlight first thing in the morning
  • Eat breakfast as soon as I wake up because this helps reset your internal clock.

These are just examples, but the idea is I go into a change knowing I won't stick to all of these, but if even a handful succeed, I will have made progress towards my goal.

Those who can be patient enough to focus on just one microhabitat at a time definitely can and should take that route. But since that never quite worked for me personally, this is my workaround. 😀

 
danilapetrova profile image
Danila Petrova

This is such a perfect breakdown! It means so much to me that you are invested in the topic and share your experience as well in the discussion.

I do think your approach is very helpful, I have done it in this way, however, I do have to say I have subconsciously doing this rather than planning it out from the get-go.