Monday, March 14, 2011

Keeping Momentum Going

I had the most inspiring weekend being with other dedicated, innovative and creative science teachers.  I came back renewed, energized and ready to take on the world!  I always feel like this after hearing from visionary speakers and hanging out with people who think the same way. 
Then, reality hits me and I am back in my own world with the stresses of deadlines, grading, etc... It happens with the weight loss too. I get motivation from watching those weight loss shows like my favorite- Biggest Loser, but afterwards when you are dealing with your own reality it all of a sudden it can feel overwhelming.

So here is what I do to keep that momentum going and don't crash after seeing something so inspiring-
  • Refocus on your goals- What do you really want? I want to be healthy, happy and balanced- spiritually, mentally, and physically.
  • Reality check- What is reasonable? Exercising 3-4 times a week, eating dessert once a week, portioning my food daily, drinking my 64 oz of water daily, taking my ukulele lessons weekly, spending time with my family daily, and losing 1-2 pounds a week.
  • Relook at the benefits- What do I gain? I feel healthier, stronger, and have energy to do all the things that are important to me.
  • Reward yourself- How do I celebrate my successes? I plan active playtime with my family and friends- going to the playground, zoo, museum, beach, hike, bike, etc. Or I buy myself a new book to read, or go get a pedicure, etc.
Time for me to do what is above!

YOU CAN DO IT!
NEVER GIVE UP!
Always,
MER

5 comments:

Mer and Mo said...

Thanks Mer for the reminders - going to work on my own list tonight - not that I haven't really lost the momentum, but it is good to always re-visit the why and the how - to get to our goal.
THANKS - MO

Parry Peach said...

Nice plan. I like your Rewards program, too.

Alan said...

Ukulele lessons cause weight loss? I'll have have to try it! :-) Seriously, good list. Sustaining motivation is one of the big challenges for all of us.

Mer said...

@Alan- LOL! Ukulele lessons are a workout on my fingers and voice. There has to be some calories burned there. It in Hawaiian so it is learning a new language as well!

Michele said...

So you are a science teacher, too?!?!? Wonderful. Did you here the talk by Jeff Goldstein?? I thought he was fantastic! I like your four "R's" above. I myself am re-focusing, too.