What three changes would you like to make in your life? Jot down the first three that just popped into your head, before you started filtering your every thought. Okay, let's say losing 15 pounds is first on your list. Where do you go from here? Change isn't easy, or we'd all be at our maximum potential and you wouldn't be reading, nor would I have written, this article. Here's a three-step process for you to consider: Awareness, Acceptance and Action! You're off to a good start, you've already completed step one! Awareness is naming the change you want to make.
To be successful in creating lasting change, it is vital to accept what is true today. Doing this without judgment is key. It looks something like this: "My pants don't button, and I feel exhausted. I want to lose 15 pounds and be healthier. I can't change my past choice to hit the snooze instead of getting up to exercise, nor my decision to eat cheesecake every time it's offered." Acceptance doesn't mean you have to like the extra 15 pounds; it is simply a sincere acknowledgement of your current situation.
Okay, now for the action. Choose one or two steps toward your goal that are a bit of a stretch but aren't wildly unreasonable. If you haven't been exercising, perhaps a 30-minute walk three times a week rather than a marathon training class would be a good start. Finding a buddy to work with is always helpful, too. With these steps in place, those pants will be baggy in no time, and you'll be well versed at choosing fruit and conversation over cheesecake. ♦
