Ahhhh, change.
I would suspect there are some things about your life and lifestyle that you’d like to change!
But we know change isn’t always an easy process.
We all struggle with self-discipline and follow-through.
Now when it comes to creating new healthy habits, I must admit, I'm not the “crack the whip” kind of gal. It’s been my experience that this approach is counter productive.
As a certified Functional Nutritional Therapist and Wellness Coach, I support people in making life-long positive change. My approach is to meet my clients where they are at, and guide them in a caring way, in order to achieve improved health, wellbeing, and mindset.
These kinds of changes take intention and effort!
Oh, and let’s not forget accountability. That’s why most people appreciate having an accountability partner like a personal trainer or wellness coach, like me!
If you’re looking to make healthy adjustments to create positive transformation, here are my three ground rules:
1. Be nice to yourself.
You’ve criticized yourself and been too hard on yourself for way too long. How does that self-judgment feel? Not great. Has it really helped you? Probably not. When you attempt to make positive changes in your life, please be gentle and kind with yourself. Give yourself pats on the back and practice self-compassion and positive self-talk.
2. Be creative about exercise.
Change your attitude about moving your body. Get out of the mindset that “working out” means going for a daily hour run or working out for 90 minutes five times a week. What’s important is to be creative in ways to move your body like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, using a stand-up desk, walking while talking to a friend on the phone, pacing during a conference call, or taking a 3 minute dance break to groove to your favorite song! Find things you actually like to do. Even necessary chores provide exercise like a deep cleaning of your bathroom! All these little things add up!
3. Be an underachiever.
But wait! I am an overachiever! Success is my comfort zone. My confidence comes from being in control. I stay up late and get up early because I can sleep when I’m dead. I don't have time to eat and feel guilty if I take a break. Perfection is my M.O. Failure is not an option. Is this YOU?
If so, I encourage you to reconsider because I am here to tell you: there’s value in being an underachiever. There’s value in prioritizing rest. There’s value in setting healthy boundaries. Strive for B- work (I promise it’s just as good as A+ work, but with less stress). Learn to let go and do less to decrease overwhelm and anxiety.
Underachievers have gotten a bad rap in our culture. But as a recovering overachiever, I now rest when I’m tired; I now put my health and my needs first. I’ve learned to let go of the stressful sense of obligation and duty to others, and let me tell you, it’s damn liberating.
If you practice these three ground rules, you’re on your way to changing your life for good!
July 28, 2020