Habit 2 of Chronically Fit People: Begin with Today

[This takeoff on 7 Habits of Highly Effective People began Saturday where you’ll find the complete list of 7 Habits of Chronically Fit People.]

[Photo credit: PrintShop Art Gallery.]

Stephen Covey’s #2 Habit of Highly Effective People is “Begin with the End in Mind”.

My #2 Habit of Chronically Fit People is “Begin with Today”.

To be highly effective, Covey advises you to plan ahead and formulate long term goals based on personal principles. Better advice for those struggling to get in better physical condition is to start where you are and focus on mini-goals to get you where you want to be.

If you have 30 or 100 pounds to lose, the goal is just too overwhelming and appears simply unachievable. So why even attempt it? I say put the end – the ultimate goal – in the back of your mind.

For now, be in the now. Be in the moment and enjoy it. Find something to savor. Don’t punish or deprive yourself; just find health giving foods and activities you can enjoy.

Set small goals for weight loss or gain. Small goals afford you many more opportunities to achieve. Each achievement helps you gain confidence in your ability to finally change the poor habits that have held you back.

For today, eat mindfully. Think before you pick up a cookie as you walk through the kitchen. Think before you reach for seconds. Does your body need that? Does your body even want it?

Add an activity you don’t normally do, like a 15 or 20-minute walk or a short and gentle exercise routine or DVD.

And don’t forget to keep fidgeting (Habit #1)!

Tomorrow we’ll go on to Habit #3. Please come back.

Tags: 7 habits of … , healthy weight maintenance, achieving a healthy weight, love your body, put food in perspective, choose healthy food, eat healthy for life, exercise and weight control