Happy Monday, lovelies! Today marks the start of a fresh new week, and I could’t be more excited about what this week holds. I just started week 3 of my current workout program. Now full disclosure, I have been a little relaxed with my nutrition and have been indulging a bit more than usual. But since it is a fresh week, I get to set my new intentions for the week ahead. And I am choosing to get back to my 80-85% with my nutrition. I have lived where I have been so dedicated and focused on my fitness/physique goals that I went into major deprivation mode, and all I can say is that ended poorly. My bad relationship with food and myself was only fueled. When I was ‘good’, I felt good about myself, but when I was ‘bad’, I felt horrible about myself. What a negative and detrimental cycle.
I am thankful that I don’t carry the same food guilt or shame that I once did, but I also realize that I feel my best when I am honoring my body by nourishing it not only with good nutrition, exercise, but also with kind words and positive thoughts. Speaking of food, one of the best ways I can set myself up for success is by planning ahead. I am sure you have heard and probably have even attested to how much meal planning/prepping can help you stay on track with your health and fitness goals, but have you also noticed how much more at peace you feel when you aren’t scrambling to get dinner on the table after a busy day of shuttling kids around or a long day of work? If you want some tips on how I have streamlined my meal planning/grocery shopping check out this blog post (Grocery Shopping 101).
What other intentions have I set for myself? Using my time effectively and efficiently. As a wife, mom, and entrepreneur I wear a lot of hats and have a lot on my plate. Not unlike most of you I know. So how do I keep from going totally insane managing it all? Using my time wisely. This takes major focus and discipline (which I am still working on developing). I have had to become more aware of how I am choosing to use the time I do have. I certainly don’t want to be working 24/7, and I don’t want that for you either.
One way to keep track of where your time is going is by actually writing it down. If you constantly feel like you don’t have enough time to get stuff done, write down how you are spending your time, and then be prepared for a gut check. Much like keeping a food journal this can be a bit eye opening, but it requires you to be honest. This morning during my workout I was listening to a podcast, and they rattled off a few numbers that really shocked me. I am not sure how they measured this, but apparently the average person spends about 30 hours/week watching TV and another 20 on social media. That is a lot of time spent not getting much done. If you absolutely have to watch TV to unwind, maybe try pairing that with another activity like folding your laundry. As far as social media goes, maybe setting a timer would help keep that in check.
Starting each week with a few key intentions is a great way to get focused on what you’re top priorities are and can help keep you disciplined when life’s temptations start to creep in. Cheers to a week ahead of crushing this one precious life! Let me know your thoughts and ways you are being intentional with your time in the comments below.
XO Alisha
Alisha Carlson | The Strong[HER] Way 