I came across this quote that said “Even if we all did the same exact exercises and ate the same food we would still look different”. It is very easy to fall into the trap of social media and start comparing yourself to others which society deems as “pretty” or “normal”. This constant comparison affects people to the point where they start relying on unhealthy diets to achieve an unrealistic body type and vague fitness, but it is essential to understand that every single body is unique and every individual is different.
How to Let Go of Comparison:
- Understanding that everyone is different and has something to offer.
- Constantly reminding yourself that you are MORE than enough
- Staying away from places and people that make you feel unworthy
- And finally letting go of competing and judging
Although understanding that the “perfect” body does not exist, it is important to maintain a healthy approach to fitness for the sake of your wellbeing and your physical health. Whether it’s starting a diet, creating a new habit, or beginning a fitness routine, relying on willpower alone can be very challenging and misleading. Starting a fitness journey requires a change in perspective and behavior. A strong mindset and dedication are indispensable in this process.
The most important part is to find something that works for YOU. This self-knowledge is a constant and evolving process that does not happen overnight. That being said, make sure that you do not get caught up on the toxic diet culture. Dieting emphasizes the idea of food being good or bad and it can worsen food obsession. Besides ruining your relationship with food and affecting your mental health, a spontaneous diet can be extremely dangerous. Eating healthy and well-rounded includes eating the foods you enjoy from the places you love. It is obvious that you shouldn’t eat fried food every day but there is nothing wrong with treating yourself with some “junk food” every once in a while. When it comes to exercising and moving your body, try to keep yourself motivated to create a nice ongoing momentum.
Tips to keeping yourself motivated:
- Write down the exercises you want to do and when you want to do them
- Try working out with groups of people (group classes tend to motivate people more)
- Create a workout routine that fits your schedule and makes YOU feel good
- Try switching it up. Constantly changing the exercises can be a good way to keep things interesting
- Remember that it is ok to take days off and relax
Once you got a nice and steady workout rhythm it is important to also take days off. Whether that would be a day without working out or a day that you decide to eat some delicious food that you might have been avoiding during the normal week. Finally, there is another quote that I like that says: “you don’t have to get ready if you stay ready” and by creating a healthy relationship with fitness that is exactly what you are doing. There is no need to engage in crazy diets or do weeks of detox juice when you are constantly aware of your body’s wants and needs.