How many times have you heard “it’s all in your head”? You’ve probably heard it more than you care to remember. If you’re like me, you’ve probably been frustrated when you heard this and ended up with a scowl on your face. You’ve probably thought to yourself, “if it’s all in my head, then why can’t I just get over it?” Well, as much as we hate to admit it, these annoying people who keep telling you “it’s all in your head” are correct. A huge part of getting fit and staying fit really is your mindset.
It all begins with your “Self Image”. Self image is the way you think about yourself and see yourself in your mind’s eye. Do you see yourself as a thin person or an overweight person? Do you visualize yourself as athletic, active, sedentary, lethargic? Do you see yourself as confident and self sufficient or do you view yourself as shy, needy, and not very likeable? Once you get your self image in line with your goals, things will flow more smoothly for you.
There is a lot of evidence out there to support the fact that changes in your body first happen in your mind. You’ve probably heard the adage by Henry Ford; “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, either way, you’re right”.
I had attempted numerous times over the years to “lose fat”, “lose weight”, “get in shape”, etc. It seemed like I would be motivated for a short period of time, but as soon as any challenge came along, my program went out the window. I really couldn’t figure out what my “problem” was and why I couldn’t succeed in making any real changes in my physique.
I really thought I knew everything about getting in shape, working out, and eating right. Then I stumbled upon an ebook called Burn The Fat, Feed The Muscle, by Tom Venuto. This book changed the game for me.
First, I realized that I had to change the thoughts I had in my head. I was not really committed to changing my body and one thing Tom said in his book that struck a cord with me was “… just admit to yourself, that you just don’t want it that badly”.
So, I admitted it; I just hadn’t been giving it my all. I had had one foot in the fitness world and one foot in the party zone. They say you can only have one master, either God or the devil. Well, same principle, maybe not quite so dramatic, but you get my point.
Basically, I would take one step forward (being “good” for a few days and getting to the gym) and then I would take a giant step backwards by having an all-out junk food filled weekend. That’s not how it’s done.
Be honest with yourself (we’re still in your head here). How badly do you really want to make this change? Once you are ready to fully commit to the challenge, then you are finally ready to move forward.
In Part Two of this Series, we will discuss your next step after you have fully committed to changing your body and your mind. Stay tuned…