We have been talking about starting an exercise program. However getting started with any new way of eating or exercise program is not the hard part. It’s consistency, which is evident since 60% of Americans drop out of a program within the first six months. So how do you stick to it with so many distractions in a busy world? One step to a Consistent Healthy Lifestyle is to create a healthy vision for yourself.
Follow me for one minute.
Think about something in your life that you really wanted and worked hard to get. It may have been a college degree, savings for a home, promotion in a job, or respectful children. Did those things just happen? I would guess not. You had a vision of what you wanted. And, because it was very clear, you took the appropriate steps to make it happen.
Why do we think being fit physically, mentally, and spiritually will just happen?
It doesn’t. We must have a vision of what we want for health. A personal vision will allow us to:
- Stop trying to do what everyone else does
- Know the specific and realistic actions to take
- Give assurance and peace that the right steps for a healthy diet and exercise are being done
I love the Bible story in Nehemiah 6.
Nehemiah had a vision to build the wall of Jerusalem and nothing would stop him. He was clear on what needed to be done. He was not chasing the latest trend or trying to do whatever one else was doing. He had a vision and nothing could stop him as he clearly states in verse 3.
“I am carrying on a great project and cannot come down.”
My Personal Healthy Vision
When I think of myself at my best physically, mentally, and spiritually, this is what I see:
- I am looking and feeling healthy
- exercising 4-5 times a week
- spending daily quiet time with God and my family
To fulfill that vision, which is an ongoing process not a check off, I know there are certain steps I need to take each day. I need to say “no” to certain things and let go of unrealistic expectations. Having that vision helps me be consistent because:
- I am motivated to have it which makes it a priority.
- I want to look and feel healthy, not perfect. Comparing myself to others would only leave me feeling like a failure and giving up.
- Allows me to realize that I cannot attempt unrealistic exercise regimens at THIS time in my life because it may interfere with family time. I choose exercise programs that work for my family.
- Reminds me that I have to spend time with God and He will show me the right path to take.
You can consistently exercise and follow a healthy diet no matter how busy you are at this time of your life. It starts by having a healthy vision of what you want for your life. Once you have that vision, you can have a clear design with the steps to take in a consistent exercise program and a healthy diet.
To Your Health,
Coach Crystal
About Crystal Breaux
You are right Crystal…consistency is definitely something I need to work on!! But it’s getting easier!!
Crystal thank you for the encouraging word. This really hit home with me today because I struggle at times with consistency and follow through in certain areas of my life. It’s as if I lack in the “determination”/”I’m going to get this done no matter what” frame of mind. It’s not in everything I do that I am this way but in certain areas. I love the story of Nehamiah and need to be more like him. Thank you for the awesome word today!
Lannette, the thing we have to remember is the same strengths we use in other areas of our life must be used with our health too. Writing a vision for your health and wellness can help you stay focused.
crystal, in talking about your Personal Healthy Vision i so appreciate that you wrote, “To fulfill that vision, which is an ongoing process not a check off, I know there are certain steps I need to take each day.” an ONGOING process…not a CHECK OFF—lightbulb moment! <3
Coleen, so awesome you realize that and yes, I had to do that a long time ago too. I am a check off person and love when I can say I accomplished a goal, now move on. But a vision is something God puts in our heart that we work on each day.
Crystal, this is so good! Thank you! My former employer used to insist that all of his employees write their goals for the coming year instead of New Year’s Resolutions. I thought that was so weird, but as I read this blog that made sense! You are so right. Our physical exercise should be viewed as any other life venture. An adventure in progress!
Getting started for the day is the hardest part. I try to remember that I will feel better after… not during and not before, but after. :- )
I’m right there with ya, Teresa!! The funny thing is, I can’t understand why I struggle so hard with leaving the house to walk, or work out, when I KNOW that when I come back home I will feel sooooo much better!!!! Grrrrrrr!!!!! Darn flesh!!! 🙁
I am not a patient person and like things to aooen overnight. However, I didn’t get out of shape overnight nor am I going to hit my goal overnights I love the idea that it’s not a check off , it’s a daily process. Running with Jesus. I also love that post. Thank you Crystal!!
Kim,
yes, it is a journey.