Look for the Bright Spots

It’s been almost 2 weeks since we’ve celebrated the newness of another year. Perhaps you’ve set up some small action steps that lead to a positive change.

Keep in mind, this could be about anything, not only health and fitness related goals. 

Whatever the case may be, how are you doing with them? Are you tracking your successes? Are you stuck in a mindset of failure?

About 99% of the time, when I talk with clients and friends, I first hear about the “mess-ups” that happened.

True confessions.

I don’t ask. They just tell.

My response to whatever I hear is, “What went well for you? What did you do that you feel good about?”

It’s much more fun and beneficial to uncover positive accomplishments. Nothing is too small to note. Every win counts.

Next time you feel as though you’ve “messed up,” try looking for the bright spots. Odds are that you’re doing a much better job with reinforcing your new habits and sticking to your commitment than you think. By focusing on the bright spots, you maintain forward momentum. You’ll feel successful and accomplished.

If you’d like a Bright Spots Tracker to help you practice this, shoot me an email telling me of a success you had this week, and I’ll send it to you.

A Little Goes a Long Way

Movement, that is.

Just in case you’ve committed to going to the gym, walking, swimming, playing volleyball, etc. and are struggling, know this: Anything is better than nothing.

And since consistency is key, discovering movement that you enjoy is critical.

Check out the wide range of possibilities and go for it. Do what you can and build upon that. 

Even walking 15 minutes a day 4 times a week is beneficial.

Exercise adds to longevity. It reduces the risk of cancer mortality, cardiovascular mortality and all-cause mortality.

For example, there is a 14% decrease in coronary heart disease for those who exercise 150 minutes per week compared to those who do not exercise. 300 minutes a week lowers the rate to 20%.

At my gym, I always see the 3 Musketeers, as I call them. Three women who do a class or two a day, usually together. They are older than me. They have fun. They keep moving so that they can move. I aspire to be like them, and hopefully will age just as gracefully.

Trying to figure out what is possible for you? Let’s talk.

 Much love,
Health Coach Carol

“Just for the record darling, not all positive change feels positive in the beginning.” —S. C. Lourie