Habit 6 of Chronically Fit People: Energize

[This takeoff on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People began April 10 where you’ll find the complete list of The 7 Habits of Chronically Fit People.]

Stephen Covey’s # 6 Habit of Highly Effective People is to “Synergize”.

My #6 Habit of Chronically Fit People is to “Energize”.

You’re heading into the home stretch. By now, the earlier habits should be starting to feel like just that – habits. It takes about a month for a new habit to take hold so that you hardly have to think twice when temptation calls. So for another three weeks, hang in there.

For three more weeks continue to focus on:

• Revving your engine,
• Setting small fitness goals,
• Rearranging your priorities to regain what you’re missing in life,
• Avoiding things that move you away from your goals, and
• Acting as if you truly love your body and don’t want to neglect or actively harm it.

You’ve chosen your plan or support group and/or class and signed up or ordered what you need to proceed. While you wait for the next meeting or for the books or DVDs to arrive, make a week’s schedule for yourself.

Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise plan. S/He can help you select the best type of exercise as well as to take any pre-existing conditions into account.

If the doctor approves, aim for at least 40 minutes of dedicated movement a day five days a week. Resolve to stick with this schedule for three weeks. Resolve to let nothing interfere. No excuses.

You’ll quickly learn that if you can get yourself started, the good feeling will build. You’ll be surprised to discover you can push yourself just a little bit further every day. You’ll be amazed at what your body can still accomplish when you treat it right.

When you’ve been unable to stand up without pushing off with your hands or bend down to tie your shoelaces, it’s like a miracle to be able to do these little things again.

You may have reached an age when the metabolism slows. Injuries or chronic conditions like arthritis may prevent you from doing what you were once capable of. But there are always other options … other ways to stay as fit as possible.

It requires adjusting … mentally and physically but it can be done. So get energized and get moving again!

Tomorrow we come to the last Habit of Chronically Fit People.

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