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It Doesn’t Have to Be All or Nothing
By Shannon Thigpen,
Resident of The Fords |
“All or nothing” is a popular saying – and perhaps an even more
widespread and debilitating attitude. Although there are circumstances
when the phrase proves meaningful, applying that philosophy to our
attempts to live a healthier lifestyle is not one of them. The phrase,
“all or nothing” can be a setup for disaster. When you bring
all-or-nothing thinking into your lifestyle plans, it typically leads to
excuses to do nothing at all.
Another, more helpful saying is “no one is perfect.” Living healthier is
a lifetime commitment. It is more than being on a diet, which has a
beginning and an end. There is nothing wrong with dieting, but in the
bigger picture, it is important to begin living healthier. Instead of
“all or nothing” thinking, immediately begin doing something. Start by
making a decision to change.
Change always starts in your mind. Once you make a decision to change,
even if it is not manifested yet in your actions, continue telling
yourself of your decision to do better. Speak positive affirmations to
yourself about the changes you are making. Avoid cancelling your
affirmations with negative talk. When you catch yourself engaged in
negative self-talk, counter those negative thoughts with positive ones.
Begin putting a plan together that you can implement and expand upon.
Make a list of ways that you would like to improve taking care of your
body. Once you have made your list, prioritize what is most important to
you. Your list may include quitting smoking, beginning exercising and
beginning eating better. Although you know smoking has to stop, if you
are unable to see how you are going to stop smoking right now, change
the order of events. Avoid using excuses like, “As soon as I stop
smoking, I will…..” Beginning an exercise program can help you quit
smoking. The more active you become, the greater your changes will be of
beating your nicotine addiction.
Be as specific as possible when writing your goals. Take each of the
items on your list and create specific, attainable goals to help you
achieve your ultimate aspirations. On occasion when life does get in the
way of your plans, reschedule and make it happen as soon as possible. If
you are unable to keep your initial commitment, keep in mind that you
have not decided to abandon hope of change. Perhaps you simply need to
pick a smaller or different goal that will move you farther down your
chosen path.
Creating new habits helps to leave old ones behind. Creating new habits
will feel uncomfortable. It will require some effort. Remember, you have
to have a made-up mind. Be specific with your prioritized list. Commit
to taking action. How you approach your change is critical. If you look
at your change with contempt and resistance, it will be that much more
difficult. If you are optimistic and enthusiastic about changing, it
will be much easier.
It doesn’t have to be all or nothing, but it should be something.
Shannon Thigpen
is a nationally certified personal trainer and fitness instructor. She
is the co-founder of Salsa & Soul Fitness, which can be found at
www.salsaandsoulfitness.com.
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