On a recent trip away, I purchased a new-to-me magazine for the plane ride, called Inside Fitness. I found it to be full of informative training, nutrition, and motivational articles backed up by scientific research. I was definitely impressed!
As I flicked through the pages, I stumbled across an article by Dr. John Berardi of Precision Nutrition titled ‘8 Body-Changing Lessons’. I was intrigued and read on. In the article he discusses the basics like taking progress photos, monitoring your success by taking measurements every few weeks, and moving every day. I nodded to myself and mentally ticked those boxes. And then I read the next point which really hit home with me:
No “Wondering or Worrying” Questions.
In this point he explained that change is hard because we have to give up what we know, like our habits and lifestyle, which leaves us feeling uneasy. In an effort to regain some of that certainty our brain can go a bit wild. We start to question whether what we’re doing is correct. ‘Should I take supplements?’, ‘What if I miss a workout or a meal?’, ‘What style of cardio should I be doing?’
I’m personally guilty of this. When I first decided to reclaim my health, I worried about everything. Was I eating enough protein? Should I eat 3 big meals or 5 smaller ones? How much exercise is ok? My mind was constantly flooded with these thoughts, and I experienced a lot of anxiety. I sought affirmation that I was doing things ‘right’, which would ease the anxiety monster, if only for a short period.
I was worrying and wondering about all the small details, instead of focusing on the bigger picture. In the article, Dr Berardi explains that the only two questions you should be asking yourself are: ‘What should I do today?’, and ‘How do I do that?’ These questions lead to a calm and focused approach to reaching your goals. But more importantly, they focus on ACTION.
Action is what will help you achieve success. Yes planning is important, but actually doing it is what counts. Last year, when I decided to stop worrying and just focus on the bigger picture, I was amazed at the progress I made. I felt mentally more at ease, I was confident in my choices, and my body began to respond. I realized there was no ‘right way’ to do something, I just needed to focus on what worked for me, and keep doing it! I was able to learn that simple is best, and consistency is key.
So next time you feel like your mind is spinning out, ask yourself this: ‘Am I focused on what I need to do right now? Or is this just wondering and worrying?’ Fret less, do more, be patient, and you will reach your goals in no time.
