Habits Matter

I wanted to share an initial roadmap for this wellness journey. But really, I’d rather identify these approaches as daily commitments to myself, designed to nurture a mindset that is for my good …..each day. Before the scale or the measuring tape or the vitals change at all, I will view the follow-through on these commitments as personal gifts to myself.

You’ll notice there are 5 daily promises I’ve made to myself that are decision points that occur each day and in each moment, giving opportunity to make healthy choices. Just as important are the 5 Daily Reminders, designed to guard my thoughts to support success. These will help protect against negative, discouraging, and self-sabotaging thoughts. Spoiler Alert: I’m a Christian and devoted follower of Jesus Christ, so a bunch (not all), of the encouragement will come from God’s revealed Word, in the Bible.

Also, please note that I am following the Mayo Clinic Diet Plan for healthy eating and support. One of the reasons for going with Mayo Clinic, is their focus on deliberately shedding unhelpful habits, and adding healthy ones. BUT—this blog isn’t about choosing or endorsing a diet or weight management plan. It really is about how to make the day- to-day changes and commitments that nurture a healthy mindset—whatever formal or informal plan we may follow. There is so much helpful guidance available from so many reputable sources, that can be customized to motivate each one of us uniquely. I can’t reinforce this enough.

My Commitments:

5 Daily Choices

1. Healthy food choices

2. Plenty of water

3. Move

4. Track food intake and activity daily

5. Faithfully log my learnings along the way.

5 Daily Reminders

1. Each day is a new day

2. I have control over what I eat and drink, and if I move or exercise

3. Good choices are good gifts to myself

4. Manage my inner voice with only positive self-talk allowed!

5. My strength comes from the Lord.

And that’s how I’ll end this post. My strength to accomplish hard things and overcome challenges totally comes from the Lord Jesus Christ. Psalm 121:1-2 is a good reminder today. “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or a nutritionist. Any opinions and observations about my weight loss and fitness plans and results are attributed to my own journey. Please consult a professional if you are seeking to engage in a weight loss or fitness program.