Motivation and Momentum
I often find that when I begin to make a positive life change, it often flows over into other aspects of my life. For example, when I start eating better, I then have more energy to exercise, which then gives me more energy at work... and so forth. However, I have also found the opposite to be true as well, and can quickly spiral out of control.
As winter approaches, like many, I find my energy levels dwindling. It's cold outside, so I don't want to go for a walk. I just want to curl up in front of the TV with every type of comfort food that I can get a hold of. A few days of that, and then I have even less energy. Quickly, I start forgoing positive habits such as reading the Bible daily. I then find my positive attitude and satisfaction that I felt start slipping away. I look to consumerism and more comfort food to make me feel better.... you get the picture.
I know that I'm not the only person that struggles in this way, especially around this time of the year. The good thing is that I believe I have a pretty good plan to reverse the momentum to a positive direction.
- Get into God's word and pray. If you find yourself in this downward spiral, finding the strength within yourself to break out of it is nearly impossible. You must rely on God's strength to motivate you. Not only that, but by emphasizing God's priorities, and not the world's, you will have a tendency to live a simpler life with less stress.
- Eat right. I'm sorry, but your body will not run as efficiently as possible on pot pies and ice cream (I've tried). Also, keep in mind that your brain is part of your body. Not only will a healthy diet give you more energy, it can help you think more clearly. It can also give you more willpower to continue to eat well.
- Exercise. Want even more energy? Get moving. Exercise within your limits and you will begin to find more energy. Soon, you may even begin to enjoy it.
I apologize to anyone who was looking for some elaborate, complicated plan. This is all I've got. However, I truly believe that if you can stick to these three steps, everything else will fall into place. Now, those people who know me are probably thinking "I bet he's been sitting on the couch all morning eating pizza and reading magazines". You would be correct. I also believe that it helps to have a little accountability. I'm writing this as an admission that I need to change. I do not like the path I have been on lately, and I'm starting with step 1 now.