Slow and Steady wins the race
When I make a decision to change something, I go all in.
I write down the main goal. Then, I write down the timeline in which I’d like to achieve said goal. Next, I create a list of things I need to prepare or purchase (if necessary to purchase). After that, I write down what I want to do each week to make it happen.
There was only one problem with my method previously.
I tried to change EVERYTHING at once.
At first, I didn’t realize what I was doing. It felt good to eat differently, to move more, to be more energetic, and to take care of myself after getting married and having children. I was making so many changes, but I was doing it too rapidly, and I started to give up entirely.
Let me say there is nothing wrong with cutting everything out via the cold turkey method that is not serving you. If something isn’t serving you, then it shouldn’t be in your life. Let it go so you can make the changes you wat to make.
Now, back to what I say saying.
The changes I was making were good changes, but I was making them too rapidly, and it was costing me a lot of time and stress. I was part of a network marketing company that promoted health and wellness, and until I realized what I was doing had positive and negative aspects to it, I was completed blinded by the, “you must lose weight to be worthy” thoughts I heard daily.
So, the next things I did to make the changes I needed to make were these:
1. I chose ONE THING to focus on. For me, exercise was never a problem. Food was my enemy. I chose to alter my food.
2. I spent SIX WEEKS making this food change consistent. The first two weeks were trial and error of what is best for me and my body. After that, it was easier to food prep and to make meals that made me feel good.
3. After I did that, I altered my workout schedule from seven days a week to four days a week. This was so difficult for me. It took me four freaking months to fix this lol I wanted to move SO BADLY, each and every day, but I soon realized the days I worked out were for a purpose, and I needed rest days to recover… and to find a new outlet when I am stressed out or upset.
4. Then, I spent eight weeks finding ways to help me manage my stress. I am the type of person that shoves things down and “deals with them later”, only to realize I never dealt with my issue. I found that short walks, by myself, either in the morning or afternoon were great for me. Also, I’d put my phone somewhere and set a long timer so I didn’t check it or bother with it.
5. Next, I had to deal with my inner demons. So, I met a therapist that happened to want personal training, and we exchanged services. It was quite a freaking deal, if you ask me. I got to help this person with fitness goals, and I received mental help I clearly needed in return. I know this isn’t always something one can do, but investing in mental health is a must.
As you can see, it takes time to achieve your goals.
And it takes time to develop the discipline to work on these things. You need to be patient with yourself. You need to find a buddy to talk to, to hold you accountable, etc. It’s so important to have those things.
But for now, TAKE THE GOAL SETTIN STEP BY STEP.
Be specific.
Know the journey will always have movement forward and small setbacks. How you approach those setbacks will be the key to success.
June 30, 2024
