It’s been a minute since I read “The Seven Habits Of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey. Actually, I think it’s time to dust it off and read it again. It’s definitely one of those books that should be read more than once, maybe even once a year. I mention the book because I’ve been thinking a lot about the second habit…Begin With The End In Mind.
Here’s the thing. What keeps me moving forward on my journey regardless of how many detours I take, is thinking and dreaming about how my life will be once I reach my goal. My reasons for wanting to lose weight IS my starting point. The vision I have for myself is me “beginning with the end in mind”. When I keep those reasons firmly planted in my mind, they serve as my motivation to not only get started, but to keep going.
I recently shared some of my motivators for wanting to lose weight. I’ve also shared my “whys” early on in my journey. So when I think about MY finish line and reaching my goal, my starting gate begins with putting the following into action.
Designing my perfect day. By designing how I want my day to play out, I am choosing the future I’d like to have. I am responsible for putting daily structure into place and establishing routines that will BE my lifestyle. Without these things, my day is left up to chance, which is also a choice, but one that does not yield high dividends. Designing my perfect day means nothing more than simply planning. Sure there will be things that are out of my control, but at least with a plan I am on target for hitting my mark.
Creating a healthy lifestyle that is sustainable. I say this often. Whatever I do to lose the weight is what I’ll have to do to keep it off. As I have come to learn first hand, it is very easy to pack the pounds back on. Quite honestly, it’s a no brainer. I realize now, more than ever that I CAN NOT approach this as just a “weight-loss” journey. No indeed. Everyday has to be about healthy living, thinking and maintaining!
Doing things that bring joy into my life. My journey is about so much more than just losing weight. It is about living my life NOW! Not 50lbs. from now, but right now. It’s about doing the things I enjoy. It’s about doing the things I’ve always wanted to do, but didn’t feel confident enough to do them. It’s about not allowing my weight or anything else to hold me back from living an abundant life!
Monna says
Great post Stacy. It’s about living a good life
Stacey Strickler says
Thank Monna! It sure is
Stacey Strickler recently posted…Mojo Monday: Enjoy The Process For The Sake Of The Process