First thing you should know is that most people seek to change something in their life because it is not making them happy. The second thing you should understand is that the desire to change becomes imperative when the discomfort of staying in the status quo far outweighs the discomfort associated with making the effort to create the change.

You Have To Be Connected To Your Reason

There has to be an intimate spiritual, psychological, physical or financial reason why this change is important to you now. It cannot be a superficial reason. You must have a visceral connection to the reason you desire this change, and that makes up “your why.”  If your why does not grab you deep inside, it will be difficult for you to mount the effort, much less sustain the effort required to effect the desired change.

Getting Motivated Requires Honesty

When something really matters to you, you will make the effort. Think about something that you really wanted before, and the concerted effort you made to get it.

1. Do you remember what your beliefs were about that thing?
2. Do you remember the emotions and feelings associated with that thing?
3. What about your thoughts?
4. Then what steps did you take consistently every day to make sure you got that thing?
5. What were you willing to sacrifice?
6. How did you stay consistent day in and day out?

You Have To Give Up Something

Many people struggle with change because it requires two things that most people don’t like”:

1. Stepping out of their comfort zone
2. The loss of instant gratification

It is a fact that when you want to create a positive change in your health and quality of life, there will be some growing pains, some discomfort. Staying focused on your ultimate goal is easier when you have reminders. I am a visual person, so I have reminders in prominent places around my home. Every time I start feeling uncomfortable about what I am giving up, I ask myself “What am I gaining for this sacrifice?” What you are gaining has to matter more than what you are losing! Sustainable change requires a daily commitment to healthy habits.

Know What Matters Most

This is where your values and convictions come into play. One of the most inspirational quotes that I use every day is by Abraham Lincoln: “Discipline is choosing between what you want now, and what you want most.” Thus, the question you must answer truthfully is: “What do you want most?”

When you choose to act, always remember to act from a state of love and truth. Examine your story, the map you are using and your GPS. You will never have the discipline to achieve or gain what you want most if your story is full of untruths, your map is wrong, and the GPS you are using daily is faulty.

How To Practice Being Consistent Daily

• Make a plan that has realistic and relevant steps
• Make it a part of your daily routine like brushing your teeth or taking a shower
• Allow for bumps along the way by being patient and practicing acceptance
• Use mindfulness practices daily to keep you centered and help you maintain clarity
• Have an accountability buddy
• Remember when we are most vulnerable [H.A.T.E.]
• Have NON-NEGOTIABLES
• Know that you are 100% responsible for creating your emotional feelings