I’m into my 30th year… It is offically 355 days until i hit the big 3-0! And I’m getting straight to work on my 30 before 30 I’ve started running (I’m using C25K free app ), It gently introduces you to running by alternating walking-running for 1 minutes each and so far, so good! So very pleased with that.
Motivation is at a high, combination of the wonderful weather we’ve been having, getting into a new circuits class at the gym which I am loving and to be honest wondering why I’ve only tried it now! Also the research, mental and physical preparation (getting the right food in the cupboards and being organised with my eating) has all helped massively. Also I’ve broken down my running goals and weight goals into smaller, more manageable chunks so its not so daunting and I’m focussing solely on getting to each mini goal as they come.
Key things which need to be in place when making a lifestyle change.
#1. Self Belief
Mental preparation I feel is key. ‘I can’t’ needs to be changed to ‘I can’ and to more importantly ‘I will!’ Believe it is possible to achieve – you are stronger than you thought. Push yourself to the limit.
#2. Determination
There will be set-backs and disappointments along the way. Prepare yourself for them mentally and remember that this is a lifestyle change, give it time and don’t throw the towel in over a minor bump in the road. Do not allow it to throw you off your true course. It will be hard work, but nothing significant was ever gained without it.
#3. Willpower
When that social event arises, which of course it will, ask yourself what is more important to you? That one night/day of partying and celebration or the long term goal? Keep a journal and record your thoughts as often as you can (I aim for minimum of 3 times per week) This really helps to clear your mind and to express all your feelings. This is super useful when you need extra motivation at times of weakness. Reading how you felt previously/ how you coped with events all help to support yourself and spur you on.
Tip- Every time you feel like eating something you know you shouldn’t or something goes ‘wrong’ in your lovely plan, write down your feelings, before, during and after you made your decision. This will help to identify for yourself in black and white where you are going wrong and how to prepare for the next time in order to have the outcome you wish.
#4. Commitment
Everything takes time. You can’t expect to be able to run a marathon without proper training or to lose weight without consistent healthy eating and exercise. Remember the old saying – it took more than a couple of months to put the weight on, it won’t drop off in a couple of months either. We all want instant results, but have patience, slow sustained weight loss has been proven to stay off in the long run.
Addressing the physiological aspects of why you lose motivation/ break your healthy eating and learning from this is key to moving forward. No-one is perfect and the 80-20 rule is one that should always be remembered. Also having visual representation for your goals is a powerful reminder of why you actually want to run a marathon/get into the best shape of your life.
I want to be slim, fit, happy and healthy
I will eat right
I will exercise hard
I will remain steadfast, disciplined and committed
I will earn my body
Is anyone else making lifestyle changes?
Catherine, xo
image source (1) Nexercise (2) Think Tank Education
