This is a pretty heavy topic, but I think it’s one that deserves attention. Maybe you’re wondering, what does self-compassion have to do with fitness? Interestingly enough, it can be a make or break mentality for you in regards to getting in shape. If you are lacking in self-compassion, you probably exhibit at least one of the following behaviors:
- You’re hard on yourself for making mistakes
- You beat yourself up when you miss a workout
- Your mood is dependent on the number you see on the scale
- You’re constantly stressed when you think about working out
- Dissatisfaction with your body
Do any of these apply to you?
People argue about what’s best workout to get a six pack or bigger muscles? What’s the best diet to get healthy and lean? But you rarely hear people talking about the psychological needs when starting your fitness journey, which may be the most important thing to know if you’re going to succeed. Lots of people will change their eating habits and start working out a few times a week. But if the results don’t happen fast enough for them to be happy with what they see in the mirror, they’ll stop coming and slip back into those old habits that got them to where they are.
If you ask people what will make them happy with what they see in the mirror, you’ll usually get a vague answer about a flat stomach or bigger butt. But here’s a secret, there are tons of people with flat stomachs and big butts who are STILL unhappy with their bodies.
It’s OK to want your body to look fit. I want a better body, and every client that I see wants the same thing. I’m just saying that you should know the reason “why” you want to get in better shape. You need to accept who you are now if you want to make lasting changes later.
Here’s how you can get started on a better attitude today:
- Find out the real reason you want to get in shape. Write it down. Dig deep – the real reason you might want a flatter stomach is because….
- Start a daily gratitude journal. Take 5 minutes out of your day to write down 3 things you’re grateful for. Super easy. Making a habit of finding things that you’re thankful for can have profound effects on your mood and mental well-being.
These may seem hokey, but they’ve been proven to work my clients (and myself), and it’s backed by behavior science. So give it a try and see how you feel after a week. You may be surprised how this improves your overall happiness and self-satisfaction.
Images by: Ashley Streff
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