We live in a day and age where we have more nutritional information at our disposal than any other time in history. We have access to thousands of weight loss programs, weight loss pills, drinks, shakes and bars and yet we are in the worst physical shape than we have ever been in. Might I dare say, we are living in a time where if it doesn’t feel good it must not be good… if I have to work hard it’s not hardly worth it…if it cost me something then I don’t want it, we are living in a time where discipline is a word that we no longer truly know the meaning of. We want results but we don’t want to put in the work to get them. We want convenience and comfort and we will sacrifice our own well being to get it. The simple truth is that we are hurting ourselves and passing this way of life down to our children who are the future. Eating right and exercise are not always convenient but the payoff is well worth the investment.
Discipline is The Key!
A life without discipline is a chaotic life. Discipline helps to bring order to every area of your life. Some of us can be disciplined in our finances, faith and family but when it comes to health and fitness it is nothing short of chaos. Health and fitness often times gets put on the, “if I have time,” list and let’s face it most of us have families and jobs that make it seem like it’s impossible to do anything for ourselves. If this is you, don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Let me help you out!
First of all, you need to know that your health will affect every area of your life. So, if you are not well, how can any area of your life be well? In order for you to be effective you need to be well in your body. So, taking care of you is vital! If you agree with me that you matter then you will agree with me that your health matters!
Be Disciplined Enough to Make SMART Health Goals
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Timely
Fitness Goals
- Start out increasing daily exercise by; taking the stairs, parking further away in the parking lot, walking or biking to work, walking the dog.
- Make sure to start out slow, pick days, times and activities that will work for you.
- 30 minutes of physical activity five days per week is a great goal to shoot for. If you struggle to find the time you can break that up into three short 10 minute segments each day.
Food Goals
- Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables each day
- Increase water intake by drinking at least 8 cups each day
- Choose lean meats for a good source of protein; chicken breast and turkey are great options!
- Eat baked, broiled or grilled fish 2x per week
- Choose low-fat dairy products
- Choose whole grains for a great source of carbohydrates
The key is to start by making small changes and continue until it becomes part of your life. It’s a process, your future self will thank you!
“Small disciplines repeated with consistency every day lead to great achievements gained slowly over time.” -John C. Maxwell
Be Well!
With Summer also comes Summer camp, hooray for a semi-kidless week! As I drop my boys off for senior high camp I find myself nearly begging them to promise me they’ll at least drink two bottles of water each day. Why is it like pulling teeth? I ponder my request and for a moment I realize I am competing with ice cold beverages loaded with sugar and all sorts of flavorings but come on… nothing comes close to that refreshing, calorie-free, crisp taste of pure Michigan water, right?! As they smile and assure me they’ll drink the water, I walk away questioning my skills of persuasion.
Carrying a water bottle with you daily will definitely help you to increase your water intake.