I think the most difficult part of following a healthy lifestyle are the setbacks. There will be weeks when you cannot exercise because you are sick or your children are sick and you can’t get out of the house. There will be weeks when desserts are everywhere you go—at work, at birthday parties, at family get-togethers. How do you deal with weeks like these?
First I want you to know that everyone experiences set-backs. Even the most fit person that you can imagine has days when he or she eats too much or exercises too little. I think the assumption is that fit people are perfect. This is far from the truth.
The most important part of dealing with a setback is making a change fast. Do not start a spiral of overeating. I have clients who tell me they “blew the whole month of January” or “blew the whole week.” Do not give yourself permission to blow a whole day, week, or month. If you overeat at one meal, wipe the slate clean for the next meal. Having an all-or-nothing attitude towards food does not work. We will always be presented with “splurge” foods and we will sometimes partake. Dealing with the aftermath is key for living a healthy lifestyle.
In January many people make changes in their diet and exercise routine due to the New Year. However, following a healthy lifestyle means that every day is like New Year’s Day. Start the day off by saying to yourself, “I will eat healthy today and make time to exercise.” Think of it as your daily affirmation. If you stray from your plan, do not beat yourself up for it! Remember that everyone overeats and misses workout sessions. Have the mindset that eating healthy and exercising most of the time is success.
I believe that a positive attitude is key for a healthy lifestyle. If you look in the mirror and think negative thoughts then that leads to overeating. If you go to the gym and compare yourself to everyone else then that leads to skipped workouts. You are beautiful and worth the time spent exercising and eating healthy for you. You know that you already have family and friends who love you, so make healthy choices for just one person…yourself!