I mentioned a great book in one of my earlier blogs called Atomic Habits by James Clear. He talks about why small habits make a big difference. I had never really sat down and thought about all of my habits collectively that have given me success in health, fitness, career, etc. You can apply his theory of habits to every aspect of your life (financial, relationships, housework, anything) but today I am using it to focus on reaching goals in health and fitness - because that's what I do!
One of the first things James Clear recommends is acknowledging what your current habits are (without passing judgement on yourself), right them down, and rate them as a good, bad or neutral habit. What a great idea! I will say since reading the book, it's got me analyzing every little thing I do - but it's kind of fun and makes for great conversation!
For purposes of my blog today, I decided to share what I believe are some of my best habits that have resulted in long term success in health and fitness. And remember, these are just habits that help me. You can try them and see if they work for you, or come up with your own system. Trial and error. However, I always talk about having a plan to reach your goal. Without a plan, you are unlikely to be successful. James Clear discusses this as well when he talks about "implementation intention." He says, "people who make a specific plan for when and where they will perform a new habit are more likely to follow through." I couldn't agree more!
My "good" habits:
1. My workouts for the week are always planned ahead of time. Every Sunday, Monday and Thursday Morning I hit the gym for a strength training workout. These are planned even further: each focusing on different muscle groups. In between those days, I typically fit in 2 pilates sessions and 1 outdoorsy workout (usually hiking). The whole week is well thought out.
2. Food preparation - This should be old news by now! I always take time once a week to prepare proteins in bulk and chop vegetables.
3. I have a supplement regimen. I take my supplements at certain times of the day, every day.
4. Water! I actually have a water routine also. Water consumption is so important. I have a 40 ounce blue hydroflask that I fill every morning. I usually go through the entire flask in my morning workout, then fill it up again and make sure that I finish it by the end of the day. I also usually have 2 cans of La Croix sparkling water at the end of the day. That's a real treat, plus I'm getting more water.
5. I measure my food. Also should be old news by now. My food scale sits on the counter top and I use it all day long. It's like second nature to me.
6. Limit Alcohol - My partner and I typically go out once a week. I look forward to it - we have lots of fun, I have 2 glasses of wine and eat whatever I want off the menu. Again, it's PLANNED, but still fun and spontaneous at the same time.
7. Practice and education - I spend time every week practicing and studying my craft of Pilates, reading up on new information in the industry of health and wellness, reflecting, making changes where necessary (eliminate habits that don't suit me anymore, make new ones that will take me where I want to go).
Take a few minutes to think about your daily habits. Write them down and rate them. Think about each one and how it serves you. How does it not serve you? Acknowledgement is the first step to success.
Also, please check out this book!! You will not regret it!
Atomic Habits by James Clear: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results
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