We see this all the time. The “all-or-nothing” mindset when it comes to nutrition and exercise goals. We tell ourselves that if we are not perfect, if every meal isn’t 100% healthy, if we don’t exercise 7 days/week or if we have one bad day that it isn’t worth it, and we have failed.
This is the mindset for why extreme diets and fitness trends are so popular. People assume that if it’s extreme it will yield extreme (and quick) results. The problem is this sets us up for failure when we cannot sustain it long term. Moderate behavior and lifestyle change may seem “boring” but in the end it is the most effective way to see progress and keep those results long-term.
When it comes to exercise, start slow and incorporate more general movement or even more time standing. If adding workouts is your goal, start with just 2-3x/week and do that until you can go weeks without missing those days, then talk about increasing frequency. When it comes to eating, think about one meal you can commit to consisting of whole foods without added sugars or processed food. Once you have a handle on that, maybe try changing a second meal, and then a snack.
Most of the time, exercise and nutrition goals are a lifetime commitment, so don’t be surprised when you have “bad days”. It’s normal and it’s going to happen….more than once! What’s important is to recognize that one bad day won’t hurt long term success unless that one bad day causes you to quit.
Are you still needing help with getting started on a plan for your fitness and nutrition? I’d love to help you! I developed a 4-week Fitness and Nutrition jumpstart program that is designed to set you up for success and give you all the tools you need to be successful with losing weight long-term and keeping it off. My approach is all about balance, you will never hear me say that you can’t eat a cookie or have a glass of wine or take a rest day. If you are interested in learning more, check out this link
July 28, 2022 @ 4:25 pm
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