Why do we always seem to feel like a failure around the holidays when there’s so much yummy food and when we have more time to spend on the couch??
We know what we should do, right? But we just don’t do it.
It could be because we don’t start small. We go all in and want to change everything. That temptation is understandable. We decide being healthy has to be hard. So we determine the only way to succeed is to take strict action.
And on top of that … there are all sorts of questions.
What do I eat? What do I not eat? Do I really have to go to the gym? How much water should I drink? What can I substitute for sugar? And the list goes on and on.
So within a day or two … at most … everything becomes overwhelming and we start to slip. Or … we don’t even start at all.
So here we are … back where we started. Except now, we feel like a failure because we couldn’t stick with our plan.
Sound familiar?
It does for me!
But I learned something that helped me stay on track.
I found that if I make small changes, I’m more likely to make lasting changes. I like to say “small hinges swing big doors”. If you make small, consistent changes, you’ll likely see big results … and … you’ll be less likely to give up.
So pick an Action Step that’s easiest for you and start with it. Then, only choose a second step after you feel confident in the first step.
Where do I start?
I’m glad you asked! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
1. Drink water. If you saw my blog last week, you may remember the tip on how to add more water throughout your day. Try drinking two oz. when you get up, 2 mid-morning oz., 2 oz. before lunch, and 2 oz. before supper. And BAM … you’re done! And ANYONE can drink 2 oz. of water. It’s literally about 3 gulps!
2. Try chewing every bite 28 times. And savor the flavor, smell the aromas, and look at the texture before putting it in your mouth! This not only helps you to eat more slowly, but also when you enjoy your food, you feel satisfied more quickly.
3. Stop eating when you’re 70% full. Not 100% full … because yes … it does take time for your body to tell your brain that you’re full. At 100%, it’s too late and we’re wishing we had sweatpants on!
4. Move around more. It doesn’t have to be in a gym. It can be dancing in your living room. Or anything that you enjoy. So move that fabulous body of yours!
5. Create ways to get more sleep. Sleep deprivation can cause so much havoc in your body. Take care of you first. When you’re depleted, nobody wins.
6. And above all … if you don’t do your chosen Action Step 100% of the time, don’t judge yourself. Leave room for imperfection. Just do your best. (I like to say “curiosity over judgment” but more about that in a future blog).
By the New Year, you may have created new habits you never thought you could have!
What step are you willing to try today?
I want this to be a great Thanksgiving for you. If you want to chat about how to make these changes more doable or need to brainstorm ideas, click below to schedule a free, no pressure, Discovery Session.
Here’s to a very Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!