Have anyone ever asked you this question?
Usually they already know the answer, but they are secretly hoping you will say it was easy. Our culture is in love with the idea of free. Why work for something when you don't have to?
Because you need to work for things. There is an intrinsic reward to achieving a thing when you put your blood, sweat and tears into it. Your effort builds confidence, creates value and is something that no one can take away from you. You did it.
There are no short cuts to health and wellness. Those of us who have it, work at it. Every day. We discover the joy in our discipline and continue to persevere. We study, we try, we stumble, we get up.
For many years I have studied nutrition, and I have come to recognize that food is personal and powerful. So much so, that it is one of the very last things a person is willing to change. Popular diets fill an interesting role here - they allow you to 'try' something new, but rarely do they offer a true solution. Then you can walk away convincing yourself that you really did try but nothing is working.
For the last 12 months, I have followed 12 different diets. Okay - it took me 14 months! I did have a couple hard stops. But that's life. This journey taught me many things:
You need a good nutrition coach - Someone who can honestly discuss nutrition with you.
You need support - Changing habits is also difficult, and community support from friends, a diet buddy or a support group is critical to success.
You must set your mind - because thoughts drive emotions and emotions drive behavior. It doesn't work the other way around. But that is what most diets start with - do this, not that. But if you are filled with doubt, worry and misinformation, you will remain stuck. Start with your mind and make a decision to improve.
Learn to love yourself - Affirmation comes from you, not outside of you. Too many people drive weight loss with the idea that someone is going to give them praise. Perhaps at a family reunion, or a friend they haven't seen in a long time. But if you don't get it, then you spiral down. Positive self talk makes a difference.
Health is earned. No one else can put in the work for you. No one can take it away from you. You are your own hero.
That's all I have to say today.
I pray that this was helpful to you.
If you're looking for a health coach, contact me: Rose@PatientTherapies.com
Until next time,
Remember,
Be Kind to Yourself!
~ Rose