It’s already two weeks into the New Year, and if you are like me, those resolutions promised two weeks ago are a distant memory (if you made them at all). One of my pastor friends on Facebook posted this about the importance of committing to daily systems instead of goals.
James Clear writes, “We place unnecessary stress on ourselves to lose weight or to succeed in business or to write a best-selling novel. Instead, you can keep things simple and reduce stress by focusing on the daily process and sticking to your schedule, rather than worrying about the big, life-changing goals.”
This past year my husband lost 45 pounds. However, when he began he never told me that he was going to lose weight—he just promised to go to the gym three times a week. However, he soon discovered that his early morning workout sessions became easier when he slept a full night before, and then he began to avoid sugar that kept him awake. He also realized that when he ate more vegetables and less processed food, he had more energy for his workouts. Viola! A goal of better health was achieved.
This year I am going to try to worry less and take time to de-stress more regularly. Every day I have been taking time for prayer and reflection. It’s very difficult at times, but I have started to feel a sense of deep calm, especially when I am worried about something.
What systems are you employing to create positive change in your life?
Elizabeth McBride is the director of intergenerational programs and editor of Café.
Photo by Eli Duke. Used with permission.
reply
retweet
favorite