Mental Tips for Keeping up your New Year Goals
It’s the New Year here in Charlotte and you’re trying to make some changes to improve your health. I was prompted to write this blog because right now I just don’t feel like getting a workout in, I have too many other things to get done, I’m not motivated and it’s quite cold outside. Here are some tips on self talk that help me.
When the initial motivation wears off or you may find yourself having a hard time getting started with a goal here are a few thinking tips that can help. I’m going to use some positive self-talk statements using CBT principles to help with anxiety around starting a workout (Feel free to change the content to whatever you’re working on, it will work.)
Challenge Catastrophic Thinking
"I don’t have to be perfect today. Just starting is enough."
"Even if I don’t feel great now, I’ll feel better once I begin."
Promote Problem-Solving
"I can break it down—just warm up first and see how I feel."
"I’ve done workouts before when I didn’t feel motivated, and it turned out fine."
Reframe Negative Beliefs
"Working out doesn’t have to be about performance. It’s about taking care of myself."
"Starting is the hardest part, and I know I can do it."
Encourage Self-Compassion
"It’s okay to feel hesitant. I’m doing something good for myself, and that’s what matters."
"I’m allowed to take things at my own pace."
Focus on Strengths and Positivity
"I’ll feel proud of myself for showing up, no matter how the workout goes."
"This is a chance to build strength and confidence, even if it’s a small step."
I think we can all be guilty of getting caught up in black and white thinking or all or nothing thinking. Taking the time to examine your thoughts and make some tweaks can help you reach goals and improve your mental health. Your thoughts matter, pay attention to them and see how they aren’t helping and make a few tweaks. If you need a little help, give me a call, I’d be happy to help you.