Building Self-trust
I want to share some insights and practical advice that might resonate with where you're at, or where you aspire to be. This isn't just about tips or tricks; it's about a fundamental shift in how we view our daily choices and challenges.
Picture yourself at the start of the day, full of potential and promises made to yourself - promises about healthier eating, regular workouts, and overall wellbeing. But as the day unfolds, so do life's unexpected twists and turns. Suddenly, the healthy meal you planned or the workout you promised yourself seems just out of reach. Sound familiar?
It's a common story, one that I've heard from many and experienced myself. This cycle of intentions drifting away on a sea of excuses can erode something precious inside us: self-trust. When we repeatedly make excuses, we're not just skipping a workout or a meal; we're undermining our faith in ourselves.
But what if we could discern the delicate balance between genuine reasons and convenient excuses? Imagine the empowerment in recognising when life truly throws a curveball, or when we're just opting for the path of least resistance.
Understanding the distinction between a reason and an excuse is crucial in navigating our commitments. A reason is often an unforeseen, uncontrollable event that genuinely prevents us from fulfilling a promise, like an unexpected illness or a family emergency. These are real-life challenges that necessitate a reprioritisation of our plans.
In contrast, excuses are self-constructed barriers, often rooted in procrastination, fear, or the pursuit of comfort. They represent our tendency to avoid effort or discomfort, leading us down an easier path. Distinguishing between the two involves self-awareness and honesty; it's about questioning our true motivations and confronting the reality of our choices.
Are we genuinely hindered by circumstances, or are we choosing the easier route? Are we able to overcome this obstacle by adapting and being flexible? By understanding this difference, we can develop effective strategies to stay committed to our goals, even in the face of life's unpredictability.
Here are a few practical steps to help you along:
Pause and Reflect: Before deciding to skip a planned activity, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself, "Is this a genuine obstacle, or am I avoiding discomfort?"
Embrace Flexibility: If a full workout or meal prep isn't feasible, what's a simpler version you can do? Maybe a 10-minute home workout or a healthy take-out option? The goal is progress, not perfection.
Learn from Each Day: End your day with a quick self-reflection. What went well? What could be improved? This helps in understanding patterns and preparing better for future challenges.
Set Achievable Goals: Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Celebrate each small victory - it's about the journey, not just the destination.
This journey is about more than physical actions; it's about understanding and managing the mental and emotional aspects that drive our decisions. It's about recognising the interplay between our emotional impulses and rational goals, and consciously choosing to respond with our rational mind.
I hope these thoughts and tips offer you some encouragement and perspective as you navigate your own path.
