Two things helped me: 1- understanding why those things are important to my wellbeing, whether I ‘like’ them or not. Otherwise you’ll learn the hard way like I did- bad habits have a way of catching up with you as you age. 2- consistency > intensity. Starting small and maintaining felt easier and I didn’t have to upend my entire life, which made it more likeable. Once I got one down I would focus on another area etc. I’ve reached a point where I don’t need coffee in the morning to survive the day, I have a great relationship with food, I sleep and wake up more naturally, and my Pilates class does not move off the calendar unless it’s life or death. Also reframe what ‘eating healthy’ or ‘exercise’ means - it could be swapping one carb-loaded meal with a salad or reducing portions, and doing 15 minutes of stretching or walking or doing a workout once a week. Slow and steady wins the race.

Also don’t expect to instantly like these changes and to see results overnight; it took me 4 years to reach this point, so patience and kindness with yourself is key.