21 days. Depending on how you spin it, three weeks might seem like a blink of an eye or an eternity. So where did the number come from exactly?! Well, some studies show that 21 days is what it takes to make a goal into a habit. One thing you’ve probably heard us echo from the Pure 21 mountaintops is that this whole program is created to be a lifestyle change. So, if the 3 weeks of ‘nutrition bootcamp’ seem daunting – just know that it’s 3 weeks that will make up for a lifetime of success and accomplishment!

Focus on the small things

As you get started – focus on the small changes. Go to bed earlier. Drink your coffee later in the morning (so you have something to look forward to). Pack high protein snacks and keep your desk drawer stocked! Victories spur further small changes and the ‘wins’ will pile up. If, and when, you choose to dine out, don’t feel the need to totally stop your life or deprive yourself. Find ways to incorporate foods you like and do your research for these spots ahead of time.

Get a support group

We know that the program isn’t going to be a cake walk either. During these 3 weeks, we encourage you to find support – through the Facebook group and your own family and friends. You could even get them to sign up and have them do the Wellness Challenge with you! Making the commitment to better yourself and your nutrition is something you should be proud of and happy to share with others.

There’s a reason it’s a challenge

If you ‘slip up’ or go off the plan for a meal or even a few meals, realize that ‘cheating’ is just a term. Don’t let it derail you and keep in mind, everything should be treated in moderation. Get right back on with the next meal and continue to schedule or plan your meals every few hours.

There’s science and neurological benefits to having another healthy meal or snack to look forward to in a few hours! We want to think of our hunger on a scale of 0-10. Staying in that happy medium range of four to seven (‘hunger arises’ to ‘satisfied’), then we don’t enter that hangry state and our blood sugar stays happy. No rollercoasters here, please!

Overall, remember that you have an entire team to support you. You are not alone! Give yourself all the motivation and reminders that you need. Think, meditate, and post somewhere visible the question of “how do you want to feel on day 22?” Keep pushing forward, day by day, towards that exact feeling.

Kayla Hansmann

Kayla Hansmann

B.S., M.S., Dietetic Internship
Kayla Hansmann is a Cincinnati-area dietitian and fitness instructor working with individuals one-on-one, in corporate work-site wellness, as well as various community settings. With experience from Cincinnati Children's Hospital to adult chronic disease management, she is focused on providing comprehensive and personalized nutrition to all individuals in various stages of life to achieve their personal goals and best state of health.