We all do it at some point … you say to yourself, “I’ll buy that outfit or book that vacation when I’m thinner / or put on that weight,” (depending upon your nutrition and lifestyle goals). Some people seem to always be waiting for that better version of themselves to emerge before they invest in the things that bring them happiness.
And I always ask people, why are you waiting to live your best life?
I mean, here we are in March when families are planning spring break activities, booking summer vacations, making summer plans with family, transitioning wardrobes into warmer clothes, etc. Yet, so many of us are still frozen with inaction, still stuck in winter cold.
Are you waiting to book that dream vacation until you finally achieve the body you *think* will bring you happiness? Are you putting off a new spring/summer wardrobe because you are waiting to lose (or gain) those last 15 pounds?
For those of you who are, ask yourself – don’t you want to be happy today?
Body Changes and Improvements Take Time – But Happiness Is Available to You Every Single Day
Let’s talk about this honestly.
If you are looking for a quick fix to get that body you desire, chances are you are either going to fail, or your success will be fleeting and in the end, cause even more damage. The science on this is undeniable.
Get fit quick schemes can be harmful to your body and produce poor results.
Nutrition and lifestyle goals must be created to be a sustainable lifestyle change. These goals take time and transformations happen gradually with consistency. There is NO such thing as a successful 15 day challenge, or (God forbid) a healthy 7 day cleanse.
They. Do. Not. Exist.
When it Comes to Nutrition and Lifestyle Goals, the Journey Is Just as Important as the Destination
So, if real change takes consistency and time, why are you waiting to be happy? The journey you have committed to take is JUST as important as the destination. You made the decision to get better – so celebrate that decision – NOW!
Celebrate every day you were able to savor your food, get in some movement and/or exercise, sleep with comfort, and wake up refreshed. Every day you made a commitment to a better YOU is a day YOU deserve to be happy.
So, stop putting off buying that beautiful outfit, treating yourself to a gorgeous new hair color, or booking that trip to see loved ones or just hang out on a beach. Your journey will take time, and if you do things to make yourself happy while you are on that journey, you will have a much better chance to stay on that journey.
Three Easy Things You Can Do to Improve Your Morale
If you just can’t shake the feeling that you are waiting for “the better you” to emerge before being happy, here are a few things you can try:
1. Get out of your own head for a while.
Many of us are our own worst enemy and sometimes our own thoughts can be the most destructive. So, when that happens, turn OFF your brain and dial into someone else’s brain instead! Read a supportive book by your favorite author, or listen to some fabulous and inspirational podcasts – a great list of podcasters are here! Listening to positive affirmations from others will give you a different and new uplifting perspective.
2. Do something nice for someone.
We are taught at an early age that it is better to give than to receive. It is a common (and accurate) perception; happiness can be found in helping others. Get up and get out. Do something nice for someone and you’ll get rewarded with some well-deserved hits of endorphins. If you need some ideas, read this article on how to give your time in a healthy and sustainable way.
3. Do something nice for yourself.
Don’t wait to be happy – be happy today. I’m not sure who needs to hear this, but buy yourself that beautiful blouse even if it is not in your ideal size! Stop waiting to live and start living today! Book that trip and experience new adventures and make amazing memories. I promise it will be just as life changing regardless of your waist size.
Life is a journey that is meant to be lived now, and not to be put on hold. Remember every day is a gift and hopefully you wake up every day believing today is another opportunity for happiness.
Need Help with Healthy Eating Habits and YOUR Happiness? Help is Available for Pursuing Your Nutrition and Lifestyle Goals – You Are Not Alone!
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, body dysmorphia, depression, weight issues, or may just need help understanding the healthy way to achieve that fit body they desire, we can help.
Our Approach at New Hope Counseling and Wellness Center is to treat the individual and not the condition. We’ll seek to:
- Evaluate your nutritional and emotional needs.
- Explore your relationship with food.
- Understand the progression of your eating disorder behaviors (if applicable).
- Discover any medical complications, dietary allergies, & intolerances you may have.
- Personalize YOUR solution (treatments and meal plans).
- Restore your hope and your relationship with food.
Our team of specialists works with teens, adults, and families. We will develop a personalized treatment plan for you or your loved one. Contact us today … You are not alone!
