In our information laden society most people agree that knowledge is power. Depending on the type of information, knowledge can be easy, or not so easy to apply. Those that do apply new knowledge in the areas of health and fitness, most would agree, reap the highest rewards. No-nonsense, tried-and-true, lifestyle information such as eating more fruits and vegetables while exercising and moving more may seem simple, but turning it into actionable steps is when knowledge pays off.
Turn Lifestyle Knowledge Into Action Steps By Engaging The Brain First.
- Mindset – Realize that most lifestyle information takes behavior modification. However behavior modification takes time. If you are looking for a simple fix, such as losing 10 lbs in 2 weeks, it can sometimes work by engaging will power. However, in true lifestyle change, the aim must be to focus less on will power, of which we have a limited supply, and focus more on organizational skills in eating cleaner and exercising more.
Action Step – Get it together! Implement one organizational skill such as packing your lunch for work, or looking at a restaurant menu online so you can pick out what you eat in advanc
- Mindset – Realize one must use the brain. Any diet that does not ask us to use our brains typically fails. Know that we have to be engaged actively to lose weight and change our life for the better. Being placed on a diet is a sure loser, but integrating what you know from all the reading you have done on healthy living over the years is a first step in asking your brain, and yourself, to take responsibility for change.
Action Step – Use that brainy beast of yours! Consider who you are and include your strengths and weaknesses. Then make a healthy change you have been thinking about such as less dessert on the weekends, or more fresh vegetables to crowd out some of the bad stuff. Implement it without being too hard on yourself by decreasing the number of desserts you may have instead of eradicating them totally, or by setting the number of vegetables to eat weekly. Eradicating food items totally causes one to feel sorry for oneself causing self-sabotage episodes. On the other hand, implementing goods foods that are nutrient dense and low in calories crowds out the poor foods. Be smart. Wisely wrap your head around making meaningful yet progressive changes that are suitable for you.
- Mindset – Don’t underestimate the power of inspirational readings. My most successful clients rarely look only to themselves for inspiration. Many implement daily readings that reflect who they want to be. In years past, inspirational reading was given little credit in the world of science. Nowadays we know better. When we stop learning, and stop being inspired by others, the aging process really kicks in halting our ability to move forward on improving ourselves.
Action Step – Get a grip. Do not be shy about reading personal stories of courage and strength. Try seeking out Inspirational readings from all facets of life and not just those in the weight loss departments. Seeing how others are accomplishing can have huge payoffs in motivating one to succeed.
Stay focused. Do not get down on yourself. Behavior modification is a process that requires thoughtfulness and insight. Being too busy to think is a sure fire way to lose out on all the benefits of a healthy, happy, more robust life.