Motivation
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I've been focusing a lot on the emotional aspects of fitness. I hope you feel more empowered to shine a light on any areas where you feel stuck or are struggling. Now we're going to crank things up a notch.
For the next six weeks, no matter what else you have going on in your life, I want you to improve on your level of commitment to yourself and your health. By the first week of June, I believe you can feel on track and moving in the right direction. Sound good?
What is your six week goal? Write it down!
It may be a goal such as lose 5 pounds, shred two inches off your waist, or walk 10,000 steps every day. It may be a behavioral goal such as keep a food journal, eat a better breakfast, or take your lunch to work.
Remember this is for six weeks. The idea is to bring more focus to your health and fitness and move yourself to the next level. Once you do that, you can make the commitment to keep going. I have found the following questions very helpful when I am getting ready to change. Don't just think through this exercise, do it. Get out paper and something to write with, take ten minutes to yourself and answer the following questions:
"Why do you want to change?"
"What were the reasons for not changing?"
"What are the barriers today that keep you from change?"
"What might help you overcome those obstacles?"
"What has helped in the past?"
"What would help you right now?"
Did you write out your answers? If not, why not? Did you put it off for later? Did it help you get clear on what you hope to accomplish? If you have been struggling, you may have felt fear just writing these hopes down. I know it can seem like just another potential failure, but it can also be the first step of something totally new. Dig deep and get clear on your reasons for wanting this. Figure out what obstacles stand in your way. Then knock them down!
It is tempting to think that if only I could stop everything else in life and Just Do This for six weeks, I would be able to make the commitment, get focused and reach my goals. This is a false belief. You can do it right now, in your life, knee deep in work and family and housework and everything else going on. I promise you.
For me, I realized a long time ago that working out is not optional. It is a necessity for me to stay fit, mentally healthy, and happy. On days that I choose not to work out, I don't feel as good. Yet there are days I spend hours in my running clothes but never quite get out the door because I don't FEEL like it. But I know that when I feel that way, I have to find a way to overcome it. I cannot give in to my feelings or I will lose my way.
I must remember again and again who I am. Strong. Overcoming One. Survivor. Believer. If I think of myself as defective, no willpower, worthless- then I will make decisions like one who is that. But if I make my decisions like one who believes, then I know I can do anything.
"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go." ~ Dr. Seuss
Now get moving!
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