In case the cool weather hasn’t hit you where you live, it’s definitely fall season where I am. When it comes to fall, it’s the start of layering season and I don’t just mean clothes. If you are a frequent reader of my articles, you know that I am a big advocate for making changes, setting goals that are short term (six months to a year), long term (one to five years), and reassess as necessary. It all begins with making a change followed by getting busy. What I haven’t really discussed is the need to break down your efforts into manageable pieces and then layer upon your approach. Let me back up a bit.
Recently, a good friend of mine and his wife started a program that eliminated all sugar, dropped their alcohol consumption (which wasn’t high to begin with) to zero, and started a twice-per-day workout routine. This is a hard task for anyone to undertake as the body will go very quickly through a massive adjustment period which often leads to burn out. Though they both have been very successful, I would like to propose something more moderate.
Make one change at a time for lasting effects.
During this same period, I decided to do a 30-days-no-alcohol challenge (booze-free September?). I managed to do it for six weeks and then gave in for a birthday cocktail or three. I am back on the alcohol reduction plan again (taking it 30 days at a time) and have since added a more intense workout program to my routine. I also adjusted my protein intake over the same time period. This layering approach has allowed me to focus on a single massive change at one time.
Break down your efforts into “bite-sized” pieces.
An old proverb asks the question: “How do you eat an elephant?” Answer: “One bite at a time.” When it comes to making changes in your life, layering your efforts or making small incremental changes will have a more lasting effect on your life. This applies to nearly everything you undertake. (Think beyond fitness; think nutrition, finances, etc.) Formulate a plan and then work the plan slowly.
I think in this age of “I need it now,” we get caught up in the desire to make the change today and see results immediately. If you aren’t where you want to be today, the chances are that likely you didn’t get that way in one day; it took time. The reverse is more truthful, you make the change today and work through it to see the results in the future. It takes time!
When you want to make a change, success comes down to a few key elements. Be aware that results take time to manifest, make small incremental changes to improve your life over time, formulate a plan, and then work the plan!! If you find areas or changes aren’t working, rethink the plan and keep moving forward. Like managing your outerwear in the colder months, layer on when necessary and remove layers when appropriate.
Comments, questions and topic suggestions are welcome. Email me: [email protected]
