Part of simplifying involves working on my habits in a simple way.
I’m reading a book called Tiny Habits by BJ Foog. It is what Jame Clear’s Atomic Habits was inspired by. BJ Fogg is the founder of Standford’s Behavior Design Lab. His book is the data from the research through his lab (and his own life).
I’m only a little bit into the book, but the reminder about how important keeping things very easy and simple to start when it comes to habit change is very important. I think this is why I have struggled so much with consistency. I try to go “all in” every time. Then I stop because it’s overwhelming. Instead, he says to start tiny. He uses a “recipe card.” After I… I will…Then I celebrate! An example: “After I start my coffee in the morning, I will do 4 air squats, then I will drink my coffee which makes me happy.” Then you begin to habit stack (which is a term that I’ve heard through different avenues), and before long, you are doing what you really want to do.
I’m going to work on doing this with my movement. I do workout, but it’s hit or miss at this point. So I’m going to simplify! Over time, I hope to get to where I’m doing some sort of movement daily. Not a full on workout every day, but even if it’s just a short walk. It’s going to take time, and that’s the piece that I always try to rush through. Developing habits takes time.
This is actually something I learned first through Balance 365 when I was part of it (for several years), but I was never “successful” because I still tried to do too many things. I have also been diagnosed with ADHD since then, so things make so much more sense for me. I am always trying to do ALL the things, then I shut down. I’m truly wanting to learn to simplify everything so that I can truly be successful over time.
I have read James Clear’s book several times, but I love that Tiny Habits gives practical steps with tools to make it happen!
Here’s the recipe card:
Street Parking will be having a “challenge” that will include the balanced plate method. I will work on the tiny habit method for movement and balanced plate method (which I pretty much have down, but I like to continue focusing on it with a challenge) with Street Parking.
SP also focuses a lot on doing “more than nothing” which is a great reminder that even when all we can do is a little bit, that’s better than nothing. Movement is the goal. Even simple movement!
Yesterday when we had a big family Christmas, I filled up on raw veggies before we had our meal. I ended up eating pretty balanced because of that! I had some protein (meat), a roll, and some mashed potatoes in addition to the raw veggies. I actually didn’t have a ton of room for dessert and things (which I did have some, but not a lot). It does work. Also, not restricting and allowing myself to have things like dessert helps a ton. Never feeling like it is “off limits” is key to consistency over the long-term.
I’m hopeful that I will be able to develop positive habits that will be sustainable for the long-term!
simplycourtney.org 