As we surpass the middle of January, this is where we may begin to compromise and reconsider commitments we made when looking at the rest of the year.
My husband and I started a whole-living commitment based on the Whole30 program by Melissa Hartwig, and we are on day 5. Honestly, some days go quicker than others, but today we were experiencing the cravings. We almost broke our commitment last night while we were watching The Office, and we were craving Jack in the Box's egg rolls (so good). It took so much to override the weariness and the cravings. We had to remind ourselves of our "why". Why are we committed to whole-living?
As I began to think about ideals of myself that I have, I have ideals of myself of having a strong, toned, and limber body, being completely confident in my own skin, being able to be energized throughout my entire day without needing that 3rd cup of coffee at 3 pm, being committed to working out at least 5 times a day, making time for myself to write and pursue my writing. The list goes on and on. As I was contemplating to succumb to those delicious egg rolls, I found myself tired of always cycling the same sob stories of failed commitments. I am tired of breaking commitments to myself. I deserve better, and I wanted to tell you that you deserve better.
I wanted to encourage you as you live and shape Day 16 of 2017 to be intentional with your time. I am about to start work tomorrow, and I know it is going to take time and dedication to stay committed to the promises that I have made to myself: 1) Write every day 2) Workout at least 5 times a week 3) Live a whole-living lifestyle
I know it is going to take sacrifices and planning when I get back into my 8 hour work day as an English teacher. I encourage us with this; you are important enough to keep promises to yourself. When life gets busy, don't compromise what really makes you a happier and healthier you. I am really going to choose to make time for myself every other day to take an hour to do something active, so I can workout. I am also going to be dedicating an hour a day to writing. What makes you a happier and healthier you? What promises did you make to yourself this year?
As we begin week 3 of 2017, plan ahead and make time to accomplish those promises. I would encourage you to fill your calendar in your phone with empowering reminders or if you are a paper-person to fill out your planner with a check-list. I promise you that you will end your day feeling happier and more fulfilled.
TAKE AWAY:
1) You are important and valuable enough to keep the promises that you make to yourself.
2) Plan your vision and make it plain, easy to follow, and manageable.
MEDITATION:
“Then the Lord answered me and said,
“Record the vision
And inscribe it on tablets,
That the one who reads it may run.”
“26 For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.”
DAILY CHALLENGE:
1. Write down a plan of action that will support you to keeping the promises that you have made to yourself?
2. As you plan, make adjustments when you see unrealistic expectations. You do NOT want to burn yourself out on keeping promises. Like if you want to live a more active and healthier lifestyle and a full hour workout time window is too long, then limit it to 30 minutes.