Words are powerful. What you say to others can mean a lot but, more importantly, what you say to yourself is incredibly important. An effort to change your thoughts will change your life.
Don’t vs Can’t
Choosing words wisely can make all of the difference. Here’s an example.
A coworker asks you if you’d like a doughnut.Instead of saying “No thank you, I can’t eat a doughnut I’m trying to lose weight.” try saying “Thank you, but I don’t want a doughnut. They have more sugar and fat than I want to put into my body.”
There is a a big difference between Don’t and Can’t. Can’t indicates that you have no control over your situation and are powerless while Don’t gives you power to choose what you want.
Have a Positive Intention
Bring intention to your behavior and actions. When you are getting ready to lace up your running shoes and you really don’t want to take the first step out the door or you’d rather hit the snooze button, think of the reason why you are being active. Are you preparing for bathing suit season? Do you want to be confused for a bridesmaid at your daughter’s wedding? Run a 5k? Or do you want to live to see your great grand children be born?
Think of your reasons while you are doing these positive things for yourself. Use that reason to keep on your path to a healthy and fit lifestyle.
Have a Mantra
I recently read a story in a magazine about a woman who lost 150 pounds. Her mantra was “I Can Do Hard Things”. I think that’s a great mantra. The human body is amazing and can do hard things. By putting these words out into the world and into her head, she was able to go from 300 pounds and a side 26 dress to 150 pounds and a size 6. Make up your own mantra and post it on the alarm clock, on the fridge, on the computer. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
- I am powerful and strong.
- I will do this because I am strong.
- Life is beautiful and so am I.
- I can make healthy choices.
- I love the person I am becoming.
Having a positive attitude is part of a healthy lifestyle. Carefully choose your words.
photo credit: papalars via photopin cc and edited by Lindsay Ann Loft.
