LITTLE CHANGES, big difference

You don't need a major overhaul of your life to boost your health, just some small adjustments can help alter your mindset for the better

Do you have a list of things you've always wanted to do, but never quite achieve them? Lose weight? Get fitter? Make more time for yourself? Forget the adage 'go big or go home' because, according to our experts, you're far more likely to create lasting change if you take things slowly. Gradual shift is less overwhelming and without that voice in your head that criticises you each time you fail - your motivation will stay on fire. So give yourself a break and soon your tweaks will grow to deliver a happier, healthier you.

STEP 1 

AIM FOR PROGRESS, NOT PERFECTION

Fear can hold you back from doing things. The thought of making a fool of yourself if you 'fail' is scary, plus it can be frustrating to think that you won't be capable of achieving what you want.

'Perfection unconsciously causes us to focus on what isn't working and the flaws,' says life coach Noor Hibbert. 'Conversely, progress is endless because you're always focusing on what's going well, how you can improve and breakthroughs. It's a matter of looking at things from a different perspective.'

DO IT: Rather than making a lofty aim - like I will work out, or jog, three times a week - then beating yourself up when you don't manage it, aim for once, and build upon it. A small success subconsciously makes your new habit easier to become ingrained.

'Celebrating the small wins means you're always growing and fulfilling your potential,' says This Morning's resident psychologist Emma Kenny.

STEP 2 

CELEBRATE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS