The pandemic has given us endless excuses as to why we have put on a few extra pounds and lost motivation to stay in shape. Some of us have settled into a lifestyle of sedentary behavior.
Compounded with the emotional stress of overeating; we may have morphed into a visual transformation that we don’t even recognize.
No matter how much the country
shut down and there weren’t as many places to socialize, the parks, the hiking trails, and even the open roads were all free fitness opportunities. This is where the excuses end and the motivation begins.
Let me tell you what works for me:
- Make up your mind that you are ready to begin again. When you change your mind you can change your behavior.
- Have a Goal. I have found that small goals that are more attainable are also less stressful.
- Create a plan. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do; and when you can do it.
- Decide that you are going to commit to the discipline needed to stay the course. You can do almost anything when you are disciplined enough to see it through.
- Choose an exercise and wellness plan that is customized to fit your needs. Low carb meals and a mix of fitness workouts tend to keep me on track and seeing results. You might have to try a few things before you can create a workable strategy.
- Prioritize and commit. Block out time that is exclusively for your wellness and self-care routine.
- Track and record. I use the Lose it! App. I know it seems as if it may take more time than you want to invest, but effective self-care is an investment. Tracking your progress can show you what you are doing that works and where you need to improve. It doesn’t hurt to see your success documented; even if you have a setback.
- Understand that you will have to make some sacrifices. You can’t do the same things and expect different results. Start with foods that you are willing to give up or just cut back on. I didn’t give up on all of the foods that I like…I just cook them differently, i.e. bake instead of fry.
Whatever you do, practice positive self-talk. Even when I get discouraged, I tell myself to keep pushing. I weigh myself twice a week, but I only record my weight once. I don’t want to beat myself up if I fall short of my goals.
