All The Small Things

Change is hard. It is stressful. It is overwhelming. And, it is really difficult to maintain. Especially when the change we are making is a big one. That is why most of us avoid change. We are comfortable with our usual routine. We are content with our regular habits. Not because they are good. Not because they are healthy. Not even because they make us happy (often it is quite the opposite). But because it is easy.

Making any change is hard. Making a big change is really difficult. Making lots of big changes at once is next to impossible.
But for some reason, when it comes to diet and exercise, we often try and make lots of really big changes all at once. We begin a drastic new diet, start a hard core workout regimen and try to completely change our everyday lives overnight. Now, some people can do this. That is Awesome! Most of us, however, fail miserably (I once began a 7-day cleanse and made it a full 45 minutes before eating). I believe there are two main reasons that we often fail when we attempt to make drastic changes to our lifestyle...

Reason #1: We take on too much. When we try to change multiple habits all at once (like no more sweets, no eating after 8, exercise 5 days a week, eat veggies everyday, etc), we get overwhelmed. We feel that we can't do it and so we give up altogether and change nothing.

Reason #2: We make temporary changes and expect lasting results. When we try to make short-term changes, a 7-day cleanse, a month of meal replacement shakes, or even a 90-day exercise program, we may get great results. However, when you stop these things, your results stop too. If we are not making lifestyle changes that we can stick with, then we can't expect the changes in our bodies to last either. Lasting changes equal lasting results.

So, what is the solution? How do I succeed at changing my habits to live a happier, healthier life? Simple. Change one thing. That's it. Just one. It isn't overwhelming or intimidating or stressful. In fact, it almost seems too easy. Good. That's the point. Starting today make one change and then one month from now, when this change is old news, make another. Just one more. Try changing one little thing each month. If one of the changes takes longer than a month before it is second nature, then wait. Don't change anything else until you're ready. The point is that you should only ever feel like you are working on ONE change. This month start exercising. Next month try exercising 5 days a week. The month after that, cut out soda. And after that, start drinking water with every meal and all throughout the day. By the end of the year you will have completely changed your lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed. without giving up. without turning your life upside down. And all the while, your body is getting stronger. leaner. healthier. and your results are getting better. And better. You are making changes that will last. Changes you can maintain. And when you change and then maintain your HABITS, you will change and then maintain your BODY.

There are no shortcuts. There are no quick fixes. The only equation that always results in success is work + time. But small changes can get huge results if you take your time, work at it and don't give up!