“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Marcus Aurelius
Our minds have a lot power. Power that can often be overwhelming and seem to run a course of its own. It's important to realise that you are not your thoughts - thoughts arise and thoughts can alter. It's helpful to use small tools to help you overcome moments of doubt and anxiety. Here are 6 day's of self lovin' tips to try:
When Getting Started on a Goal: Write Yourself a Letter
When I first committed to an exercise plan – it was hard! Despite the fact that we want to make changes, knowing that it is good for us, it is tough to follow through – for everyone. One helpful tool I used was writing a letter to myself, one that was set on a reminder that popped up on my phone every morning when I woke for the day. It went something like this:
“Lauren, you have not been happy with the way you have been living, you are frustrated and upset. If you want to change - you need to take action. Take action today, tomorrow, and in the weeks that follow so that you can achieve your goals. You can do it. Do not give up!”
What is your letter going to say? Ensure that it reminds you of your WHY. Write it down:
Day 1: Feel proud
Feel proud of yourself for Showing up - for YOU! That’s probably one of the most important yet challenging parts of any journey. Well Done!
Repeat: I am proud of myself for….
Day 2: Celebrate your victories
It can be difficult for us to celebrate our personal victories. Because we seldom allow ourselves to believe that what we achieved has been enough. Whatever the victory - whether it is choosing to do something for yourself (big or small), completing a workout, or even arriving at your exercise mat; it is worth celebrating.
What victory are you going to celebrate today?
Day 3: Gratitudes
I am grateful for… What are the three things that you are grateful for today? Gratitudes are so helpful in reminding us that we do have things that are important to our lives. Things that are essential, cannot be bought and give us joy and hope. Gratitudes remind us of what's important and help us to be reminded that the longing we have for other things, may not be the most important driver. This can be a daily practice if you need it to be. Take a moment. Breathe.
What are the three things you are grateful for today?
- I am grateful for ...
- I am grateful for ...
- I am grateful for ...
Day 4: Be your own Cheerleader.
Sometimes we don't get the support we need and desire from others. It can be very tough to walk a challenging journey without this encouragement. There are many who have never received a simple “well-done”. There are times when you will need to be your own cheerleader, your own defender and your greatest supporter. Don't forget that your support is the most important, so back yourself and give yourself a much-needed Hi-five or tight a hug!
How are you going to be a cheerleader to yourself today?
Day 5: The last time – There is always a last.
There will always be a last time for everything. That’s a tough thing to acknowledge. There may be a last time you sit in your office chair, there may be a last time you are able to go for runs with your workout buddy, and there may be a last time you feel so uncomfortable. Often we never know when the last time will be, the circumstances of life can change easily. Enjoy each moment knowing that they are ultimately limited.
When was the last time you took a moment to just sit myself and enjoy air, breath and calm?
Day 6: Accept what you control, and release what you cannot
For some reason you often get stuck worrying about what you cannot control. We worry about actions we cannot change, we worry about future events, we worry about other peoples behaviour. If you cannot change or take action on this concern, you need to allow to leave your mind. Right now. These thoughts are serving you no purpose. If you can do something - if there is an action item if there is something you can do, get it done and ease your mind.
If the light is out and you are in bed. Set those anxieties a side. You can deal with them at another time.
Ask Yourself, "is this something I can control"?
