It’s the third month of the year already. I’m not sure how we’re already in March but here we are. January and February were flashes in the pan. I didn’t head into this year with huge resolutions. Instead, I’ve been more focused on being consistent in my life in ways that really matter. I’m paying more attention to how I show up for myself.
The thing with being consistent is it’s far from easy. Especially when we jump into something new. It’s easy to fall off because that new thing isn’t a part of the normal routine we’re already used to. I am happy to report I’ve been doing well with something that used to be a big struggle for me. That workout grind, y’all!
I was more of an on-and-off person when it came to exercise. It was way too easy to fall off because I have other responsibilities that require so much of my time. Sound familiar? Of course, it does. The thing is, exercise may not be the thing that you are trying to stay consistent with. For a lot of people, maybe you, the new year brought some resolutions. Those could be the struggle.
Using myself as an example, working out is my jam now but it hasn’t always been that way. I’ve had so many fits and starts with my exercise journey but not giving up made all the difference. Even if it had been months of me doing absolutely nothing. My fitness is something I’ve always aimed to be serious about and so I’d always find a way back to it. Re-starting is painful though. Your muscles hurt, you can hardly move and you wonder why you started this up again. Been there.
Here’s how to stay consistent once you’ve made up your mind to go for it – whatever it is for you. Also, remember that these work for any area of your life where being consistent has been a challenge.
Remember your why. Why do you want it? It has to be enough of a reason to make it worth it. Me, I know the things that run in my family and community: diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Making changes and putting in the effort now could save me from dealing with these things. My why. Think of what your why is for whatever it is you’re trying to do. Keep asking yourself why until you get to the real root of it.
Even if you feel unmotivated, do it anyway. I guarantee you’ll feel better afterward. Maybe you’re trying to get a business off the ground but the grunt work is tedious. Do it anyway. You’ll feel better after you see that the steps your take on the days you don’t want to really add up.
The thing about new goals and habits is that it can be easy to get overwhelmed in the beginning. It always helps to create small steps. Work your way up to whatever it is you’re after but do it slowly. If you try to go too hard, too fast, you’ll likely overwhelm yourself and just decide to quit. Don’t ask how I know. Move along.
Another good idea is to make a new daily routine that includes your new thing. Once there’s a place for your new thing in your life it’s MUCH easier to get it done and keep it going.
What do you think? What would you add?
