Healthful habits, once they take root, can bear lifelong fruit for you and your loved ones. But given the vast array of medical information available, the challenge of knowing just what to do can be daunting — Where to begin? Consider the story of Benjamin Franklin, whose fervor for self-improvement drove his success in science, industry, diplomacy and politics.
Seeing that his character was his to mold, he created a system to strive toward continuous moral improvement. At the age of 20, he picked 13 virtues — like temperance, silence and frugality — and made a daily diary to record his violations of each. Even if he never achieved perfection, the system Franklin devised shows how attitude and planning can make a difference.
And what Franklin learned about life is just as applicable to your health. You don’t have to achieve his precision, but setting up a personal system to improve your health can pay dividends. Consider making a New Year’s resolution to continuously improve your health, says Rosemary D.
Laird, MD, MHSA, executive medical director of the Advent Health, formerly Florida Hospital, for Seniors program. “A little work each month can really pay off in a big way,” she says. “It can help you get into the habit of seeing your health as something you need to pay attention to and can change for the better.”
To guide patients through the task, Dr. Laird has created a Top 12 Calendar of Health with a different area of focus each month. Spend time reviewing each area and improving your habits over the year.
Keep in mind, after January, where you are to take stock and plan out the rest of the year, there is no “correct” calendar for everyone. If you have priorities that need to get addresses sooner, feel free to adapt it to your own health needs. But do something each month!
January: Take Stock and Plan for Success Start the year thinking about your health and healthcare. Create a file with a list of your medical conditions, medications, doctors or other therapists, and appointments. Set a plan for the coming year.
February: Move It or Lose It For most of us, exercise doesn't just happen. Make a plan, and tell your friends and family about it. They'll keep you honest - and maybe they'll join you.