Why
Let’s be real, training and making healthy choices over a long time period isn’t always easy. In fact, it’s easy to slip into habits that are fun in the short term but detrimental in the long term. A reframe that helps me when I find myself slipping into a life of convenience…
I think of investing money - you know its the right thing to do. You understand the concept of compounding yet you won’t see those results for decades to come. Small inputs for many years lead to outcomes that let you live a life of freedom.
Training, eating well and managing your mental health are the exact same. You want to spend freely now, you want to enjoy the moment and figure it out later. Unfortunately, you don’t get that 8th wonder of the world - compounding - and all its benefits.
Using this view, start now. Regardless of how small the inputs are, in time, they will be bigger, better, and more impactful than you’ve ever imagined.
Why Your “Why” Matters
Habit changes, whether in fitness, nutrition, or spending, require persistence and dedication. The journey is seldom straightforward, and there will be moments of doubt, fatigue, and temptation. A powerful “why” serves as your north star, keeping you grounded and focused even when the going gets tough.
Finding Your Personal “Why”
Your “why” is unique to you. It’s a deeply personal reason that drives you to pursue a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few examples to spark your thoughts:
Being a Healthy Role Model: Perhaps your motivation is to set a positive example for your children. Showing them the importance of healthy habits can inspire them to lead healthier lives too.
Preventing Family Health Issues: Maybe you’ve experienced the loss of a parent or loved one due to a preventable illness. This loss could be the catalyst for you to make health a priority, aiming to avoid similar issues and live a longer, healthier life.
Achieving a Personal Milestone: Your “why” could be linked to a specific goal, like running a marathon, completing in a crossfit competition, powerlifting meet or training for an adventurous trip with friends.
Reflecting on Your “Why”
Take some time to reflect on what truly motivates you. Here are a few questions I reflect on to help you dig deeper:
What are the most important things in your life?
How does your health + physical abilites impact these priorities?
What are the potential consequences of not making these changes?
How will achieving your goals benefit you and those you care about?
Write down your thoughts and keep them somewhere visible. When you encounter challenges, revisit your “why” to remind yourself of the bigger picture. While it can seem silly or mundane, being able to read these during your day helps to bring you back to your bigger goals.
Using Your “Why” as Fuel
Once you’ve identified your “why,” use it to fuel your journey. Here’s how:
Visualize Your Success: Imagine the end result and how it will feel to achieve your goals. Visualizing success can reinforce your motivation and keep you on track.
Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Break down your main goal into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate each milestone along the way, as these small wins will keep you motivated. In fact, make these first goals so small that they seem silly. Stack small wins and enjoy the momentum as you tackle bigger objectives.
Create a Support System: Share your “why” with friends, family, or a community that supports your journey. Having people who understand your motivations can provide encouragement and accountability.
Stay Flexible: Regardless of what life throws at you, as long as you keep moving forward, you will get to your destination. Flex your creativity on how you can move forward, regardless of the situation. Use your creativity as a badge of honor!
Remember, It’s a Journey
Change is not instantaneous. It requires patience, persistence, and a strong “why” to guide you. By understanding your deeper motivations, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the ups and downs and stay committed to your health and wellness journey.