Reader with diabetes needs to change lifestyle

DEAR HARRIETTE >> I am still living an unhealthy lifestyle that includes consuming soft drinks, despite being diagnosed with diabetes. I recognize that this habit is detrimental to my health and could worsen my condition, but I find it difficult to break free from it. I need guidance on how to shift my mindset and make healthier choices for my wellbeing. I understand the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and managing my condition effectively, yet I continue to engage in behaviors that undermine my health. I don't know how to cultivate a mindset that promotes selfcare and wellness.

— Unhealthy Habits,

Unhealthy Living

DEAR UNHEALTHY HABITS, UNHEALTHY LIVING >> Now is the time to get professional help. Engage the services of a nutritionist who can design an eating plan for you. Post it on your refrigerator, and then make the conscious choice to purchase items on the healthy list only. Write out a grocery list and check it off each day. Resist the sweet drinks and other foods that will cause you harm.

Get a therapist. This professional will help you learn to make those hard decisions to walk past the soft drinks and other unhealthy foods. You are right that you have to completely change your mindset and decide that you are worth the commitment and changes required to literally save your life. It takes time to adopt healthy strategies for living, but you can do it. It starts with you making that pivotal choice to do what is best for you. Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions toaskharriette@ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.