It’s a New Year which always brings our thoughts to turn toward “new beginnings” and things we would like to do different this year in our lives. Realistically, most New Year’s resolutions don’t make it very far down the road as a permanent change in our lives. We mean well but things come along and we fall back into the old familiar pathways that are comfortable and known. This is where I turn back to what has worked for me. Making small changes until they become habits and then adding other small changes.
It’s often a big shift to be willing to “forgive” ourselves and instead of being our own worst enemy, learning to be our best supporter. It’s hard to shift from being so hard on ourselves and only seeing the worst to being kind and gentle with a belief that we can do things different if we were brought up with negativity or learned to fall into self doubt over the years.
Small shifts build momentum as we build success and gain confidence in making long term changes. As I’ve encouraged often, journaling is an invaluable tool to set goals, see where your struggles are and chart changes so you can stay focused and encouraged. And sometimes it can be used to “talk yourself back down off the high-wire” and into a better mindset.
We will continue to look at ways to change our eating habits and this week’s suggestions are:
– When you have finished your pre-decided amount of food, get a strong piece of gum or breath mint to refresh your mouth. (Others will appreciate this too and you will look like you are being polite.) This will also make the next thing you choose to eat not taste the same or as good.
– And if you are chewing gum, though you might be able to walk and chew gum at the same time – you can’t eat and chew gum at the same time! (Or if you do, the food could taste a little weird and you would be challenged when it comes time to swallow). If you have TMJ and therefore don’t usually chew gum, choose a softer type and cut the strips in half or less (this works, as I do it a lot).
– Either eat a small (healthy) snack before you go “out”, so you’re not as hungry, or at least drink a large glass or bottle of water (this would be a better option) so you’re not feeling like you’re “starving”.
If it’s too cold or nasty to park farther out so you have a longer way to get to the store, maybe take a “lap” (not at a running speed where you’d take someone out) around the mall or store to get some “extra steps” in on a yucky day.
Add some stretching or old fashioned gym type exercises during commercials while you’re watching tv when you’re stuck inside from the rain or cold. Or just make this a habit whenever you watch tv. Get your kids and family to join you instead of making fun of you! Make it “fun” and a bonding moment of time interacting – which we could all use more of in most of our family settings.
Do leg squats and deep knee bends as you move from one place to another or while you’re brushing your teeth or drying the dishes. Make life more interesting and you’ll find some laughter and lightness along with moving your body more.
Make whatever you do “fun” and do it at an enjoyable level instead of causing pain and pushing yourself to the limit (unless you’re an athlete in competition). Find humor and something good in as much as possible and you’ll be amazed at how much easier mundane and boring task can become.
And no matter how many times you mess up – don’t give up and eventually you’ll make progress in the right direction and feel better, both, mentally, physically and emotionally. It’s really worth the extra effort and will become second nature with time. I know this to be true as I’m speaking from experience!
Blessings as you motor along into the New Year. May it bring many joys and accomplishments that in time you will look back on and feel great about
I Can Do This Lifestyle 