Use this simple phrase to change your life.

To make real change in your life you must start with how you see yourself and what your identity is.  You start by creating a new normal that eventually becomes your identity- “I ———–”. “I take cold showers”- “I’m an early riser”-”I workout everyday”-NOT “I have to …” or “I can’t …”.   You can substitute with “I get to…” when it is an event you may not be as thrilled about.   “I get to commute in my car to work so I listen to podcasts”.

As much as possible use positive language.  Not: “I don’t snack” rather: “I only eat at meals”; not: “I don’t watch TV” rather: “I like to read” not: “I don’t eat in restaurants”; rather: “I bring food from home”.  Your mind will hear “watch TV” or “eat in restaurants” even if you said you don’t.  Positive language will reinforce the positive action.

When you create a new normal all of the sudden one day a switch will go off and boom, the habit is a part of you. It can take 5, 21, 66 or even 365 days but once it is ingrained it’s permanent.  It is simply who you are.  You just do it, no thinking about it or not doing it. You don’t have to push yourself, it’s a part of you. Cold showers- you turn on the cold and don’t notice if there is no hot water. Eating well- you get used to good food and don’t crave or want junk food or desserts at all. It’s OK to slide a little-success is not a straight line upward-the key is to continue toward your goal.

Decide what you new identity is, even if it is a small step, and then use it and own it.  It may take some time, but remember life is a marathon not a sprint.

A lasting permanent change can take time, but it will be worth it.