We've all heard the saying "The definition of insanity is trying the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." This holds true for many things, but especially for our health. Think about it, we gain weight, we diet, we gain it back, we're frustrated ... and the cycle continues. We do the same thing over and over, expecting that this is the time the weight will stay off, or this is the time we'll keep our workout routine - but then we don't. Why? Because we keep doing the same thing!! It's time to switch it up for good so we can get off the hampster wheel of our health and start moving forward to a better and healthier YOU!
Here are some suggestions:
Don't think of your lost attempts as failures.
Think about them as figuring out what is not working. We spend so much time trying to figure out what will work that we don't pay attention to what isn't working. Think about what you're doing now, is it working? Why or why not? To figure out the path forward we have to understand what we're currently doing and why it's not working. That way, we can make a plan! Once you know what doesn't work, we can figure out what does work. This is NOT a failure, this is trial and error.
Take note of what IS working - and do more of that!
Do you tend to work out more consistently when you have a trainer as opposed to working out by yourself? Do you tend to eat healthier when you cook more at home instead of going out all the time? Pay attention to these little victories and the more you do them, the more results you'll get! Try and enjoy the journey and pay attention to those small victories that are working for you. The more you do it, the better the results, the more motivated you are to keep going!
Remember Rome wasn't built in a day
Practice makes progress. As crazy as it may seem, it took you a while to get where you are, so it will take you a while to get where you want to be. The more you do something, the more consistent you are with something, the more results you'll get. But remember, it takes time - so be patient! Anything that says you'll lose 10 lbs in a week isn't something that is sustainable. You may lose the weight, but maintaining that weight loss will be impossible, and unhealthy! Sustainable weight loss takes time, commitment, and lifestyle change (for the better!). So be patient with yourself. Take small action steps daily towards your goals.
Take baby steps
Some people need a drastic change to make a change - for example, completely quitting sugar or alcohol, but others need to take smaller, gradual steps such as having a "dry day" or swapping a sugary beverage for water once a day. However big or small the step you choose to take is, own it and be consistent. Schedule these steps into your day so you know when you're taking them. For example, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I will not drink. Or, for breakfast, I am swapping my sugary cereal for oatmeal.
Consistency is key
We all know that to create a habit you have to be consistent. Make it a part of your life! Whatever your goals are, you must be consistent with them in order to make them a part of your life. It will be hard at first, and yes you may fail a few times. Learn what caused that failure and try a new approach. You'll soon find the more consistent you are with your new routine, the easier it will be to fit it in, your body and mind will adjust and soon enough it will just be a part of your life!
So, switch it up, get off that hampster wheel, and start making some real changes!!!
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