100 Ways to Change Your Life

“What if living well wasn’t about discipline and sacrifice, but about joy, creativity, and resilience? ‘100 Ways to Change Your Life’ by Liz Moody provides practical advice rooted in science to create meaningful change and lasting happiness in your life.”

1. Enjoyment is the Foundation of Wellness

Enjoying life isn’t just a bonus; it’s essential to your happiness and longevity. Moody challenges the common misconception that self-improvement must involve suffering, like grueling workouts or restrictive diets. These practices often become counterproductive when they stop bringing you joy and lead to burnout instead.

To live better, start by finding pleasure in activities that contribute to your health and well-being. This could mean replacing a workout you hate, like running on a treadmill, with something you love, like dancing or hiking. Similarly, transform your diet into an exploration of vibrant flavors by incorporating nutrient-packed yet tasty ingredients like fresh herbs or seasonal fruits. By focusing on what makes you happy, you create sustainable habits that nurture both your mental and physical health.

Moody also suggests reframing your motivation. Instead of exercising to meet arbitrary physical standards, consider how it equips you to live fully – to travel, play with loved ones, or enjoy hobbies. Plus, reflecting on mortality can deepen your appreciation for the present, helping you savor even small joys in life.

Examples

• Replace a gym session you dread with an activity like yoga or team sports.
• Use aromatic spices and bright, fresh fruits to make healthy meals exciting.
• Reflect on how wellness helps you enjoy dancing, parenting, or simple pleasures longer.

2. Harness the Fresh Start Effect for New Habits

The start of anything new feels like a blank slate – this is known as the "fresh start effect." Moody explains that new beginnings, like Mondays, birthdays, or the New Year, naturally motivate us to work toward our goals. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to wait for life-changing moments to implement change.

To form lasting habits, timing matters. Use milestones such as the start of a new month to introduce behaviors you want to adopt. Pair this approach with a simple strategy called WOOP: Define a Wish (your goal), think through the Outcome (positive impact), anticipate Obstacles, and make a Plan. This sequence ensures that your readiness to change is supported by a concrete strategy.

Don’t forget to make your new routines enjoyable. Moody’s tactic, "temptation bundling," pairs something pleasurable with a necessary habit. Hating exercise? Commit to watching your favorite show only while on the treadmill. Tasks you dread may no longer feel like a chore when tied to things you truly enjoy.

Examples

• Start a fitness routine on the first day of a new season or vacation.
• For an aspiring journaling habit, imagine the clarity and mindfulness it can bring.
• Watch your favorite series only while working out to make exercise fun.

3. Foster Creativity – Don’t Wait for Perfection

Creativity isn’t just for artists; it’s essential for a fulfilling life. Moody argues that many people shy away from exploring creativity because they wait for ideal conditions that never come – like a bigger budget or loads of free time. But creativity thrives when we simply begin, even in imperfect circumstances.

Taking action is key. Whether you want to start painting or build your own business, tackle the small steps first. Sharing your work, even when it feels unfinished, helps you refine and grow. Creativity grows through feedback, evolution, and persistence, not overnight brilliance.

Interestingly, daydreaming and even fiddling your hands can spark creativity. Neuroscientists reveal that idle gestures or allowing your mind to wander – such as while washing dishes – taps into brain regions responsible for innovation. Schedule time to disconnect and let inspiration find you organically.

Examples

• Begin that blog or photo project today without waiting for new equipment.
• Use fidget toys during brainstorming sessions for a creative boost.
• Leave moments of “nothingness” in your day, like ditching your playlist during commutes.

4. Redefine Stress to Build Resilience

Stress is inevitable, but your perception of it determines how it affects you. Moody asserts that viewing stress as a challenge rather than a threat empowers you to rise above it. This small mental shift can result in both better coping strategies and improved outcomes in tough times.

Start by reframing physical symptoms of stress, like racing thoughts or a pounding heart, as "excitement" rather than unease. This tweak in labeling can transform nerve-wracking tasks, like public speaking, into fuel for enthusiasm and performance. Lists also ground you – writing out your strengths or resources reminds you that you’ve successfully handled difficulties before.

Additionally, acknowledge all emotions, even uncomfortable ones like sadness or anger. Feelings like nostalgia in grief or small moments of relief in hard times can coexist with more negative experiences, softening their intensity and reminding you of life’s complexity.

Examples

• Before a presentation, remind yourself that "I’m prepared and excited to share this."
• Keep a “resilience journal” and write down past successes whenever you feel overwhelmed.
• Name emotions as they come to normalize them – “This isn’t just fear, it’s anticipation too.”

5. Use Nutritional Micronutrients to Stay Strong

While macro trends like low-carb diets get all the press, Moody emphasizes the unseen power of micronutrients in fueling your body. Compounds like selenium or vitamin D drive your cell's energy production and keep your body running smoothly for years to come.

Most processed foods lack these vital components, so Moody advises sticking to whole, natural ingredients. Nuts, seeds, and colorful vegetables deliver a rich mix of vitamins in every meal. By focusing on variety and natural flavors, you supercharge your meals and body without any need for supplements.

Oral health is also integral to longevity. Periodontitis links to major illnesses like heart disease or Alzheimer's. By flossing regularly, you reduce gum inflammation and, by extension, systemic inflammation that leads to larger health concerns.

Examples

• Add a tablespoon of pumpkin seeds to your salad for micro-nutrient diversity.
• Replace pre-packaged snacks with fresh organic produce for fewer additives.
• Treat flossing not just as a dental chore but a full-body health measure.

6. Think Beyond Physical Aging

What if the secret to a long life was as simple as refusing to grow up? Moody highlights research revealing that staying young at heart – dancing, trying new things, and shedding stereotypes about "what’s age-appropriate" – predicts a longer and happier life.

Our mental outlook directly impacts our health. People who reject thoughts like “I’m too old” stay more active, social, and adventurous. These elements safeguard physical and mental health, keeping minds sharp and spirits high.

Whether it’s meant picking up a new hobby like surfing or just wearing bold colors unapologetically, acting younger cultivates vibrancy both inside and out. Longevity, Moody shows, is as much about attitude as it is biology.

Examples

• Celebrate birthdays with daring activities, like trying skydiving or a music festival.
• Learn a new skill – whether that’s salsa dancing or pottery – regardless of age.
• Refuse to "act your age" when it comes to decisions like fashion or interests.

Takeaways

1. Discover joy in your routines by focusing on what you truly enjoy, whether it’s exercise, diet, or daily tasks.
2. Build resilience by reframing stress and keeping a record of past challenges you’ve conquered as reminders.
3. Incorporate small, nutrient-dense foods and unique activities to safeguard health and longevity while living boldly.