I have a big busy life, but then again who doesn’t? My days are full and non-stop from the moment I wake up until the moment I go to bed. Everything requires time and attention and some days it feels a little overwhelming to try and get it all done. But here’s what I’ve found to be helpful in making life and specifically this weight loss journey more manageable.
I’ve learned to use the same technique I use in making my work load a little easier, and that is through creating processes and setting up automations. Now here’s the thing, when these things are in place it’s a wonderful thing. It definitely takes some time to set these things up, but once in place it makes life so much easier and the weight loss process a smidgen more doable. Here’s how to automate your weight loss journey.
Planning
We’ve all heard the saying that failing to plan is planning to fail. It’s true, which is why I believe weekly planning is key. It focuses your mind and sets you up to win. Now of course carrying out the plan is a whole other ballgame, but the act of planning and the anticipation of executing the plan will put you in the proper mindset to do what needs to be done.
Preparing
Preparation prevents poor performance. Preparation includes putting together a weekly menu so you’re not guessing about what to eat each day. From that menu you can create your weekly shopping list to make sure you have all you need when the time comes to cook. To avoid coming up with excuses lay out your workout clothes or pack your gym bag the night before. If you really want to earn yourself some brownie points, keep a workout bag in the car at all times (now that’s really being prepared). Instead of cooking every night, cook enough for a few days at a time. Try multi-tasking by using a slow cooker to do the work for you while you’re at work.
Scheduling and Setting Appointments
We plan and schedule everything. Phone calls, meetings, socializing, vacation etc. etc. etc. When you have a busy life a calendar and or daily planner becomes your best friend. Although I prefer to write things down (because it aids in my retention), more and more I am using the calendar and it’s reminder feature on my phone/iPad. They act as my “personal assistant” to help me to be where I need to be when I need to be there. Here is where I schedule my workouts, set reminders to eat and drink my water, set the timer to stop one task and move on to the next, all so I can be more efficient in getting it all done. I encourage you to adopt this habit as well.
Establish Routines
Routines eliminate the need to have to remember what needs to be done next. For example, my morning routine has become a habit for me. I don’t have to think about it, schedule it or try to remember what needs to be done. It’s something I routinely do and get enjoyment out of and it sets the tone for the rest of the day. Every morning I habitually make my coffee, take my shower, have my devotions and prayer, stretch, get dressed for the day and skip off to work. I’ve added working out to my daily routine so I don’t have to worry about “fitting it in” at some point during an already loaded day.
Set Reminders
I’ve already touched on this but using the alarm feature on my phone is a life saver. I can get so engrossed in what I’m doing that before I know it 5 hours have gone by and I haven’t budged to eat, pee, or move my body. Not good. However because I know this about myself I set my alarm to tap me on the shoulder to say, Hey Stacey go eat. Hey Stacey go workout…Hey Stacey take a break. It really does help me to maintain some balance in my life while working to get it all done.
Your Turn To Share
How have you automated your weight loss journey? What are some things you’ve put into place to excuse proof your journey?