This happens to me every time! My clothes start to fit and at the same time, I get tired of all the limitations. I get that inner 3-year-old whine going ... "Why can't I have two brownies! Waa!"
Plus, I know how hard it will be to lose these last 12 pounds. Why? Because I actually need to eat LESS than I have before. Eat less or exercise more. Both are a challenge.
As I put up the brownies last night that my son made (after allowing myself a small piece), I contemplated this challenge, and I remembered how I felt when I tried to start running last year. Instead of thinking about how far I wanted to run, I thought about just making it to the next light pole. That's all.
If on Tuesday I ran five more steps than I had on Monday, I was happy.
While I no longer run, thanks to birthing three children and being in my late 40s (some of you know what I mean), I realized I needed to apply that same principle to this weight loss challenge, and other challenges I'm facing. Here it is:
Sometimes, when I am feeling overwhelmed I need to set very small and immediate goals, and be happy when I make them.
For example, today, I am not going to eat any more of those brownies. Plus, I've already planned what I will eat today. I'm not worried about tomorrow or the weekend. Just today.
And instead of worrying about the 12 pounds I've got to lose, I'm only focusing on the next one. I'll be happy when/if I get on the scale tomorrow and it's down one pound.
I've also got a lot of work to do on my website business (www.RoseLaneCottage.com). But instead of feeling overwhelmed with all the work, my only goal is to get 6 new products online.
Sometimes I can look at a long to-do list and feel energized. But other times, I need to break it down and just put one manageable item before my eyes.
What do you need to do today that feels overwhelming?
Is it laundry? Do one load only and then put it up.
Is it cleaning? Pick one thing to clean and that's it for today. Your kitchen sink or bathroom mirrors are a good place to start.
Is it dealing with a defiant toddler? Pick one issue to stick to your guns about today. Only one.
Is it a huge task at work that you've procrastinated about? Make one phone call today.
Is it dealing with a difficult relationship? Make the decision to say one nice thing to that person today.
Is it your personal devotion life? Sit down and read one chapter of the Bible (the book of John is a good place to start). Then tell God one thing you are thankful for and one thing you need His help with.
Seems that life can overwhelm even the most competent woman. More than any goal setting trick, I need to remember that I don't have to do all this in my own strength. I was created to face life armed with God's strength.
Isaiah 40:29, "He gives strength to the weary and
increases the power of the weak."
Phillipian 4:13, "I can do everything through him who gives me
strength."
So today, I need to look to God for strength, take a breath and set smaller goals. Because some days all I can think about is just making it to the next light pole.
Proverbs 4:11-12, "I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble."
Have a lovely day,
Glynnis
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3 comments:
Wow!! This is exactly what I needed to hear today. Your post is certainly a blessing!! Thanks
I love this! Because I am in a weakend state, I cannot do everything I would normally do and it has been frustrating for me. As a result, I have become stuck. This has helped change my perspective. I will now go do the "one" thing I can before my body collapses again. Once I recover, I'll do one more thing, and so on. Thank you!
Thank you for this! The do one thing is such a relief! So much of the time I get frustrated trying to 'eat the whole whale' so to speak! Our pastor has a saying about not looking ahead too much of all you have to do...just do the next right thing....so your post kind of reminded me of that! I can clean the sink and mirror today, then tomorrow tackle the floor!
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