Process over Perfection

Have you heard of the saying, “Happiness is not a destination it’s a way of travelling”?

I heard it years ago, and it resonated with me so much I ended up getting it as a tattoo. I wasn’t in a great place trapped in a way of thinking that if only I had such and such I would be happy; this job, this kind of body, these possessions or even that kind of partner.

I’ll be happy when… is a thought process which is setting you up for failure. Life happens, weight fluctuates, we get injuries and when we are focused on the goal and we don’t reach it, it is very easy for that negative voice to creep in and say, "see I knew you couldn’t do it."

Hating ourselves into change is not an effective strategy.

The key to a long term, sustainable fitness plan is to fall in love with the process. Going for a walk, because we like to be outdoors. Or eating healthy because we enjoy preparing nutritious meals. Perhaps easier said than done.

How can we start learning to love the process? Here are four things that have helped me go from being someone who hated exercise and didn't do it, to someone who loves keeping fit.

1. Gratitude

For me gratitude was a driver behind my change in attitude.

Thinking about what I was grateful for right now kept my mind out of the future and not focused on what I didn’t have, or what I wasn't achieving.

This is a long term strategy so keep it simple and manageable by listing 3-5 things that you are grateful for every day. You can send it to a friend if you want to stay accountable!

2. Be curious!

Starting something for the first time is an opportunity to learn.

For example, not wanting to go into the weights section of they gym. Why? Is it a fear of failure? Worrying about being judged? Not sure what to do? How can I learn? Journaling is helpful to work out the why behind some of our thoughts and actions.

3. Track your habits

It is satisfying to see progress mapped out. Give your self a big, colourful tick in your diary or calendar each time you complete a workout or eat a balanced meal. Looking back over all the ticks you have collected over the course of a few weeks or months will remind you of all the effort you have put in so far.

4. Learn to fail

Don’t rush to get to a certain number on the scale or lift a certain weight, life happens and progress isn’t always linear. Failure is a huge part of the learning process. If we don’t fail then how do we truly know what has worked and what hasn’t.

Failure forces us to pay attention and lets us know we are getting closer to success, and most importantly it helps us to be appreciative when we do reach our goals. The trials and tribulations we face will not take away from our story but in fact will significantly add meaning and purpose to it.

And don't forget, there will also be lots of unintended positives discovered during the process that you hadn’t thought of like making friends or discovering a new passion. There is so much opportunity that comes with starting something new, do not let fear hold you pack or perfectionism stop you from enjoying it.

After all, the secret to happiness is to enjoy the ride!

If you are ready to make a change, I am here to help. Fitness is my passion and I want to share that joy with you. Helping you to get results and fall in love with the process at the same time. Call 07747676414 to get started today!

www.getfitwithme.co.uk