Psalm 139:14
Who Do you Want to Become? In the book, Atomic Habits, there are two pieces of advice that I find particularly helpful when it comes to fitness. Tip #1 – Identity Shapes Your Habits “Many people begin the process of changing their habits by focusing on what they want to achieve. The alternative is to build identity-based habits [and conversely] start by focusing on who we wish to become.” It may seem that this makes the task more daunting because you no longer have a measurable result, but you are changing your whole identity. “The goal is not to run a marathon, the goal is to become a runner.” Yet, this shift actually puts you in a more balanced state. I no longer have strict diets lasting a number of weeks; rather I make everyday decisions as a healthy eater would. The trick to this tip is to decide what your fitness identity is and continually affirm it with intentional acts (even small ones) every day. Tip #2 – Don’t Break the Chain How many of us have set lofty goals that assumes zero variation from our plan? This only shows faulty ambition and exact foolishness. Inevitably, life will thwart our exercise routine, or we will indulge in an unhealthy meal with friends. When you must deal with this scenario, the book prescribes “one simple rule: never miss twice.” When we veer off path, the ability to rebound quickly makes all the difference in our success. Another reason we don’t break the chain is because we have to realize the danger of even a few moments of compromise. The book says, “Lost days hurt you more than successful days help you.” On the days when you really don’t feel like staying the course, focus less on the quality of your routines and more on affirming your health identity. A fit person is more likely to insert a quick 15-minute workout than to skip it entirely. Consider how these two tips could impact your fitness journey. Consider also, the way they could aid your faith journey as well!
Caleb Crawley MD5 Facilitator