I am really hard on myself. I always have been. I hold myself to a really high standard in everything that I do.
While this has helped in many aspects of my life, including starting a business, it is also to my detriment. Putting that much pressure on oneself can lead to anxiety, high levels of stress, and physical exhaustion. All of which I have battled at different points in my life. What I am starting to learn(although very slowly), is that reflection and celebration of accomplishments no matter how small, is critical to keep a positive mindset.
In our bi-weekly coaches meetings at CF416, we often talk about creating small wins or “Bright Spots” for members at every stage of their fitness journey. In a world of high stress jobs, where positive re-enforcement can be very limited, we as coaches want to provide some positivity in each class or training session that you attend.
A win doesn’t only have to come from PR’s. Some days even just doing a workout can be a win or resisting the urge from the food or beverage you “shouldn’t have”, spending a little less time on your phone and making an effort to grow a relationship. You do amazing things every day that can be celebrated.
If you can keep your goals in sight, take action on them daily and celebrate even the smallest accomplishments, you cannot fail.
Week after week, celebrating these small wins will roll into a snowball of accomplishments that will result in high levels of motivation and a positive mindset.
At its core this process can be very simple. Start each day/week with a win ie. “What are 2 or 3 things that went well today or this week”? Then set your goals for the day, and take action.
Do it now. Think about one thing that went well yesterday (no matter how small). Write it down in a notebook, or your phone…or even send it to me in an email.
We all have goals, but the final destination shouldn’t be your only celebration. It’s the little things along the way that will provide real fullfillment.
-Dan
