Human beings are masters at validating actions and behaviors that serve them, even when consciously they know the action/behavior isn’t good for them.
Regardless of what action/behavior is in question – we are soooo good at giving reason to an unreasonable practice.
Going over the speed limit because “I am just keeping up with the flow of traffic.” – or – “Charging another $100 won’t really add to my near-maxed credit card.” – or – “One cheat meal won’t kill me.”
We are experts in talking ourselves into dismissing the unhealthy action. We are a maestro when it comes to staring bad behaviors in the eye without blinking, all the while pretending that our eyes aren’t burning! And we come up with genius ways to bullshit our way into allowing the actions and behaviors to go on repeat day after day, week after week, month after month; then wondering why we are stagnant.
I also know that you could have a good argument as to why all of the reasons and excuses are actually valid (that’s kinda the whole point )
When it comes to your body, your health and your life – people talk out of both sides of their mouths. They recognize that they are overweight and inactive – and tired and sick – but they somehow still seem to come up with reasons why they can’t stay the course and make the changes necessary to get to the goal of healthy living.
Here are 4 things you tell yourself to excuse eating like shit – and how they are keeping you stuck in a body you hate (ok, ok, hate may be a strong word…you know what I mean).
- “I CAN START AGAIN FRESH ON MONDAY!” = PROCRASTINATION
Breaking the cycle of procrastination can be quite hard, however, taking the time to work these singular processes can be life changing.
Make a list – Pick a time in the morning, usually when you are free from distraction to make a list of the ABSOLUTE NON-NEGOTIABLES TASKS for the day. On the same page, off to the side, make a list of BONUS TASKS. This should only take you 5-10 minutes. Stack this habit with something you do every morning like drinking coffee or packing your lunch.
For example:
NON-NEGOTIABLE TASKS
- Workout
- Make Dentist appointment
- Pay bills
- Empty dishwasher
- Make a grocery list
- Make dinner
BONUS TASKS
- Bathe the dog
- Clean out the pantry
- Research vacation spots
- “LIFE IS TOO SHORT, YOLO!” = JUSTIFICATION
Justifying unhealthy action with the YOLO mentality can become a slippery slope. We could all agree that you are never guaranteed the next moment, but living recklessly in the moment can have profound effects on your life.
Learn to look at your YOLO splurges through a different lens – really ask yourself HOW eating like an asshole or drinking yourself into a stupor is making your life better? If you are keeping it real – you know that binges like those leave you feeling like shit and promising, you’ll never do it again!
- “I DESERVE THIS!” = REWARDING BAD BEHAVIOR
Well, you’re not a dog – so stop rewarding yourself with food.
What do you really deserve? You deserve a clear mind, a strong body and a unbreakable spirit! Isn’t it ironic that the behaviors that you justify with “I deserve it” are the exact behaviors that you have recognized are the ones that got you to an unhealthy spot in the first place?
Don’t justify and use “deserve” for what it really is – it’s simply what you want (and usually you want it on an impulse).
- “I DON’T HAVE THE TIME OR MONEY TO EAT HEALTHY!” = MISALIGNED PRIORITIES
Everyone has the time. Everyone has the money. It’s how you prioritize both that makes all the difference.
You don’t have the money for fish, yogurt, fruits and vegetables but you have money to get your nails done.
You don’t have the time to meal prep – but you spend 2 hours each night doom scrolling Instagram.
The time and money excuse is really just misaligned priorities – and it’s time to get that part right. Once you have aligned your priorities with healthy living – LOTS of other excuses and reasons fall to the wayside.
The self-sabotaging narrative that we spin in our heads just may be the number one reason why most people fail at achieving their healthiest body, their most fulfilled existence, and their happiest heart.
When it comes to health and wellness, diet and exercise, discipline and consistency – your MINDSET, SELF-TALK, PERSPECTIVE and BELIEFS are really what is driving you toward (or away from) success.
I encourage you to dive deep – be vulnerable – keep it real. Cut the BS and weed through the psychological obstacles that are keeping you from your best self!!
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