Treat Yourself, You're Worth It!

We've all heard it a million times, the constant griping about what foods must be gone without and the workout that was forced under severe sleepy conditions.  What people are missing or just choosing to not shed light on (damn Nancys) is the gratification that comes with a job well done.  A win is not a win without the feeling of accomplishment!  If you've already made the choice to become healthier, congratulations you've already won part of the battle savor the victory. Do you know how many people haven't even taken action to take care of themselves? So kudos to you!  And if you haven't made that decision yet: make it now, get a plan of action, write it down, give yourself a big old pat on the back and savor the victory.  After each exercise session take a few minutes to really think about the accomplishment and enjoy the good feeling.  Those good feelings are internal rewards which is something most of us need to work on enjoying more often.  You should feel good about yourself because when you feel good you look good and when you look good you feel good (talk about a great chain reaction!).  And who doesn't like an external reward? When you reach a long term goal go buy those shoes you've been eyeing or that watch you've wanted; you deserve it!!  Being healthy should not feel like you are constantly depriving yourself of something you want... don't let yourself forget that you are working towards what you REALLY want and it will feel oh so good when you get it!

How Do We Find The Silver Lining in Storm Clouds?

I've pushed positive thinking and optimism so much that it is beginning to sound like an after-school special but the real question is WHY NOT think positive? I believe quite a few of my clients would testify to the fact that positive thinking has actually enhanced their workouts and helped drop pounds! How many times have you prepared for vacation knowing that you will gain those extra pounds while eating and lounging? And I bet you gained every single pound you were so destined to gain.  What about preparing for vacation with a new outlook, just knowing that you are going to feel rejuvenated, refreshed and come back feeling great? I know that person, she left for vacation and came back FOUR POUNDS LIGHTER! I bet I could find handfuls of people that felt so worn out and tired of themselves that they were sure everything they tried would be too hard and would never work. I have heard of every excuse and crippling (which happened to be very minor if diagnosed by anyone with a medical degree) injury that I could write a book instead of a blog.  I've witnessed people over-analyzing (yes, I'm talking about YOU) each and every little part of their body and why their program might not work to the point that I was nearly convinced that it may not work.  But after reminding myself and them over and over and over I've watched a few slowly and then quickly become more positive and shed weight and reach goals that just a few months ago they were destined not to reach.  Just like every after-school special this story comes with a moral: like all things worth having it takes work and practice.  You find the silver lining in the storm clouds by ADAMANTLY looking for it.  You think these people became positive after positive things started happening? Well, Negative Nancy, I hope one day you put on a pair of rose colored glasses and find out that the world really is prettier through that view.

You are your greatest asset!

Each day I find myself needing some encouragement and positive thoughts sent my way.  We all like a little healthy encouragement; especially reminding us to take care of ourselves since we so seldom do. Putting yourself first does not mean you are being selfish.  It is absolutely impossible to take care of those who need you when you have yet to take care of yourself.  This blog is created to remind me, my clients, my friends and anyone who needs it that a little healthy selfishness can go a long way.  You'll find inspiration, healthy tips, and some funny stories here so enjoy! Put your time, effort and money into training, grooming, and encouraging your greatest asset... YOU