Getting Rid Of The "Screw It" Mentality

Are you guilty of the "screw it" mentality?  Here's what I mean by that: You have a craving, end up caving in, and feel guilty.  Instead of moving forward with a balanced day, you decide to say, "Screw it.  I have already made a poor choice, so I might as well make another poor choice because I have already messed up my healthy day of eating."  This mentality starts a vicious cycle that keep you from reaching your long-term goals.

Did you know that the failure rate for New Year’s resolutions is around 80%? According to Strava, a social network for athletes, people are most likely to fall off their goals in mid-January. Hopefully this doesn't apply to you, and you are still crushing your goals. If motivation is running low, here are a few tips to help you keep the momentum going, and improve your health long-term:  First, make sure your goals are specific. While exercising more, and eating better are great goals, they aren’t very intentional because they lack a plan of action. Instead, try writing out your exercise schedule for the week in your calendar. Each day, make movement a priority, knowing that you will feel much more accomplished afterwards. Hold yourself accountable by signing up for a workout class, or setting out your workout clothes the night before. Diet-wise, it can also be as simple as writing a reminder to eat more fruits and veggies each day.  You could also make a grocery list for nutritious recipes for the week.  Sticking to a diet/exercise resolution can be tough! Be sure to give yourself grace when slip-ups happen, and don’t let them derail your progress. One bad meal, day, or even week is trivial compared to a year of consistency. Be honest with yourself and know that it’s okay to take rest days when you need them. The more enjoyable the process is, the more likely you will be to keep it up!