Over the last 10 years we have seen a trend with clients who give up before they meet their health and wellness goals.
Oftentimes, clients come to us for a physical transformation in hopes to increase confidence and feel better about how they look and who they are. This transformation towards a healthier version of themselves paints a picture of a distant, idyllic destination – one that seems perpetually on the horizon, no matter how many miles or salads they clock in.
Focusing on the gap between your current position and your ultimate goal, can become the biggest roadblock on your path. The psychological tug-of-war between where you are and where you wish to be can sabotage your progress, making each step forward feel insufficient. The problem is, almost every single client who practices this sneaky habit is unaware of the fact that they are doing it and ends up quitting.
It doesn't have to be this way, the secret to overcoming this mental barrier lies in a fundamental shift in perspective.
Here are 3 tips to stop sabotaging your progress and shift your mindset today:
#1 Celebrate daily wins
This is a powerful strategy to shift focus from the overwhelming end goal to the progress being made. These victories are often the small, seemingly mundane habits that, when consistently practiced, become the cornerstone of long-term success. Whether it's choosing water over soda, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or getting an extra hour of sleep, these habits might not seem noteworthy in isolation. Yet, their cumulative effect is what propels you towards your health and wellness goals.
By acknowledging and celebrating these daily wins, you not only reinforce positive behavior but also cultivate a sense of achievement and progress. This positive reinforcement loop can significantly enhance motivation and commitment, making the journey more enjoyable and sustainable.
#2 Reframe your self-talk
It's essential to listen to your internal dialogue. Are the words you use with yourself helpful, true, and kind?
Negative self-talk can be a powerful deterrent, magnifying setbacks and minimizing achievements. By consciously changing the narrative to something more constructive and compassionate, you can create a more supportive mental environment. Instead of chastising yourself for slipping up, acknowledge the slip as a part of the journey and remind yourself of your capability to get back on track. This shift towards positive self-talk not only boosts self-esteem but also resilience, making it easier to navigate the ups and downs of your journey.
#3 Keep track of all the positive changes
No matter how big or small, plays a crucial role in maintaining a positive outlook. This practice helps to develop a frequency bias towards recognizing progress. When you actively note improvements in your health, mood, energy levels, or even in your interactions with others, you train your brain to look for success instead of fixating on the distance yet to be covered. This can be as simple as maintaining a journal where you jot down positive changes or milestones achieved. Over time, this record becomes a tangible testament to your journey, filled with evidence of how far you have come. It serves not only as a motivational boost but also as a reminder that progress in health and wellness is multifaceted and goes beyond mere numbers on a scale or a tape measure.
One of my favorite authors is Jon Acuff, he calls this list a "Best Moments List" in his book All it Takes is a Goal. If you have never listened to or read a book by him I highly recommend you start with Soundtracks.
As with any new habit, the trick is to be consistent with these three steps, as James Clear says in Atomic Habits, when you miss a habit more than once you are starting a new habit (of missing your habit).
The journey towards health and wellness is less about reaching a distant goal and more about appreciating and building upon the progress made along the way. By celebrating daily wins, reframing self-talk, and keeping track of positive changes, you can shift your focus from the overwhelming end goal to the achievements that mark your journey.
This mindset not only enhances motivation and resilience but also transforms the journey into a rewarding experience in its own right.
Remember, the path to health and wellness is not a race; it's a series of steps forward, each one worth recognizing and celebrating.
