Habits
Despite not wanting to. I did.
Sleepy. Low energy. Unenthused. I went.
See, the thing is I’m just now getting back into a workout routine. So, I don’t want to miss a workout — especially because of a lame excuse like I’m sleepy.
I’m trying to form a habit. Forming a habit takes consistency. You know, doing the same thing again and again. Over and over. Day in. Day out. And when it comes to working out — doing it even when you don’t want to.
To establish a routine and form a habit — here’s my approach:
– I’ve started with a small goal. I don’t want to overwhelm myself. Three times a week for now. Once the routine is engrained. I’ll add another class or two (Yoga, Weight Training, etc.).
– I’ll attend the same class (5:30 a.m. Cycling M,W,F) for a month. This establishes a pattern. Once the habit is formed I’ll be moreflexible on days and times.
– First day, I introduced myself to the instructor. This gives me someone to be accountable to. Even if I let myself down. I won’t let him down.
-The night before, set out my workout clothes, underclothes, socks, tennis shoes, towel, and fill water bottle. Preparation equals success. Besides, it gives me a few extra minutes to sleep in.
– Stay away from the negative thoughts. Instead replace these thoughts with positive, upbeat messages. The mind is powerful.
So, this morning, despite not wanting to. I did and I’m sure glad. I feel energized, accomplished, good.
Chrisetta Mosley
I am a product – and now a survivor – of childhood obesity. As a child, my family always told me that my extra weight was merely baby fat and I’d eventually grow out of it. I never did. Instead, my childhood is filled with memories of not being able to ride a bike, flattening its training wheels from being over the recommended weight, and avoiding P.E. classes by any means necessary. For years, I wore my fatness like a wounded soldier wears a Purple Heart - with pride. I owned the look. I dressed it up. I worked the room. There wasn't a skinny girl who intimidated me. I made sure my hair was laid just right. Nails polished. Outfits coordinated to the tee. Accessories to compliment every outfit. But everyone has a breaking point, and mine came in the spring of 2004 when I tipped the scale at nearly 400 pounds 388 to be exact. I was MISERABLE trapped inside of that body. I no longer wore my Purple Heart with pride. Rather, I was ashamed and frightened. Ashamed that I had allowed food to become my everything – frightened I would die because of it. Drastic times called for drastic measures... Today, I’m bound and determined to live a better, healthier, active lifestyle. I realize I’m no longer a passenger in my life, I’m the driver. I’m overcoming my inhibitions and I’m slowly but surely saying farewell to my old childhood nemesis, obesity. For once and for all, Farewell Fatso!