I like to keep busy. Almost too busy.
There are pros and cons to this way of living, but my main concern has always been how to remain healthy physically and still be able to get through most of my daily tasks.
I have not deliberately exercised in well over a year (using my busy barista job as justification). The last thing I want to do after hours of slinging coffee beverages and being social is head to a gym and do more moving around.
My next best option is to be mindful of what I eat from day-to-day, whether I am eating healthy and balanced meals or going for whatever is easiest (the pastries at work are my downfall).
I like healthy foods, I like super unhealthy foods, I actually do enjoy exercising when I am not forced to be in a boring gym, and I enjoy lazy days on the couch.
I am actively pursuing a healthier lifestyle, but instead of forcing myself to diet or pay too much for a gym membership I know I won't use, I just talk myself through any negative thoughts and guilt.
I know this sounds easier in theory than in practice but just calmly talking yourself through a difficult thought or negative feeling will really improve how you take on these challenges.
To help anyone struggling with their goals, here is a list of thoughts and ideas that have helped me in times of self-doubt.
1. Don't sweat the small stuff
Just because you slipped up or you've had a hard time getting started, remind yourself that you want to change, which is progress in itself. Brush it off and keep trying.
2. You'll really know when you're ready
This sounds cliche, but seriously, you will know when you want to make positive change. Sometimes, we are just fed up with accepting things as they are and acknowledging that you need to change something for yourself is a sign that you're ready to move forward.
3. Stop adding unnecessary stress
Life is already stressful, and you will do no favors to yourself if you keep ruminating over every move you make (or don't make). Focus your stress on things that are important, like paying your bills on time and getting through your work week after taking on extra shifts.
4. You will figure this out
Believe in your abilities to make a change and know that you will see results in one way or another by physically feeling more fit or mentally feeling energized and optimistic. You may not know how to start or what your next steps should be, but that is what "trial and error" is for. No one knows what they are doing when they first start a major personal journey, but eventually, they figure it out. Be patient.
5. Maybe you caved and gave in to temptation, whatever.
If you think that you need to make yourself miserable and deprive your cravings, you are mistaken. Beating yourself up over every time you slip up will not help you become healthier. Realize that you are human and perfection is unattainable for anyone. Don't give up just because of a slip-up, just keep moving forward.
6. Look at pictures of cats and dogs, not celebs and supermodels.
Every person is different and every body is different. Work on getting to a point in which you feel comfortable in your own skin because this is about getting healthy, not bashing yourself for not looking like a Photoshop experiment. Besides, animal pictures and videos will put a smile on your face.
7. Research some unique exercise programs and gyms that offer a free class
Plenty of gyms and studios offer a free walk-in class, which is awesome when you're unsure whether or not to jump right into buying a membership. Make your exercise fun or you won't stick with it.
8. Plan ahead, but not too far ahead
Set goals, but start with short-term goals. I mean very short-term. Try planning ahead only week by week at first. Planning too many goals at once will overwhelm you and make small progress seem like something not worth celebrating. Any progress is worth celebrating. Be proud of your accomplishments. Those short-term goals will help you focus on the present and the small changes you need to prepare you for attaining the long-term goals.
9. Chill. Breathe. Live.
Making lifestyle changes is difficult enough without the nagging thoughts of doubt and negativity in your head.
Even just thinking about making a change for the sake of your overall health is an accomplishment. Remind yourself that change takes time and that you got this.
