Evoking Change

Any sort of change, whether it be a fitness goal, a career change, or something as simple as wanting to be better at a particular sport, first requires the individual to truly buy in and envision a clear picture of the end result. It’s just like an addict struggling with a drug dependency. They know it’s wrong and understand change is necessary, but without faith in oneself, they won’t be able to follow through.

What are the guiding principles that evoke change? Commitment, hard work, perseverance, never give up attitude, belief, faith… Use any variable that fits you but you need one part physical involvement (hard work, commitment, perseverance, etc..) and one part mental involvement (faith, belief, positive thoughts, etc.) to make it work. You can’t do it without both of these components in your strategy. Hard work won’t evoke change if you in your heart and mind don’t think you are capable of what you’re trying to achieve. But it is possible for anyone, absolutely anyone, to change…if they really WANT it.

How does one take steps to succeed at achieving a goal once they’ve decided on what that should be?

I am a big fan of positive affirmations. Understandably, talking and writing to yourself seems pretty uncomfortable at first, but having goals in writing and verbally expressing them from time to time can have lasting impacts and keep you focused. Giving yourself a pep talk first thing in the morning on a day when you just aren’t feeling it can help get your mind right.  “I’m a good person capable of doing anything I want … today is my day and I am going to own it.” Done.

Also, write positive messages to yourself and leave a couple of post-it notes in key areas around your house, car, bath room, or office. Brief, positive statements like “I believe in myself ,” “I am powerful beyond measure,” and so on, and watch your mindset take on more of a positive tone over time. In a period of weeks or months, your life and the goals you set for yourself will begin to take shape. Affirmations have power. Who really cares if people think you are crazy for doing them! Remember, what other people think of you has zero impact. We only get one life – I’d hate to see it wasted worrying about what other people might be thinking of us.

Positive Affirmations are a good starting point. Utilizing the methods above will help build inner confidence and defeat the little voice inside your head that is your biggest detractor in this life. Silence that little voice and start living!

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mitch

Mitch Calvert is a Winnipeg-based fitness coach for men and women like his former self. Heavyset in his 20s, he lost 60 pounds and now helps clients find their spark and lose the weight for life.