What is your why?
Whenever I work with clients in the area of nutrition and health, I always ask them, “What is your why?” Many people come to me with some great goals of losing weight, eating healthier, getting fit, but don’t always attach it to a why.
Part of being successful in meeting your goals is to determine why these goals are important and if you were to meet them, what would that allow you to do? For example,
“I want to lose 30 lbs. so I can get down on the floor with my children and play without being out of breath or not being able to get up.”
“I want to get into shape, so that I can enjoy some of the hobbies that I used to love doing, like hiking or biking.”
“I want to eat healthier so I can be a good example to my kids and no longer worry about my health. I really want to be around to see my grandkids grow up.”
These are all important goals that have significant meaning attached to them. When the focus is only numbers on a scale, we can quickly lose sight of our goals when the opportunity comes up to indulge in some tasty treats. Maybe your goal is to lose 20 pounds so you can fit back into your favorite dress, jeans or pants. Keep those favorite articles of clothing in a place that you see them every day to remind you of your goal. Maybe wearing those clothes reminds you of a time that you felt good. Keep a picture out of that time to remind you of how good you used to feel.
Another strategy may be to look ahead either one, five or ten years and imagine where you want to be at that time. Setting goals based on these aspirations can also add some motivating factors. For example, “In a year from now I want to have completed a 5K run in two of my favorite cities.”
Reward yourself with non-food items when you reach different milestones of your goal. Maybe it’s some new hiking shoes to do a hike that you haven’t been able to do in the past. Maybe it’s a weekend getaway to a place that you have wanted to visit, but haven’t been able to or haven’t made the time.
Keeping the focus on your why can motivate you in ways that nothing else can. Attaching emotions, memories and experiences to your goals triggers parts of your brain that can increase the likelihood for success. Just remember, whatever goals you set, make them measureable and attainable to celebrate each step along the way. Find a good social network to walk with you and encourage you. Finally, believe in yourself and the goals you have been able to accomplish. You can do this!
If you need some direction or help, please contact me for a nutrition assessment or coaching.