Commit to Yourself

It’s Super Bowl Sunday friends!  All sorts of excitement around the game, the commercials and of course the half time show.  I have been totally digging the new Carrie Underwood song for the opening, Champion.  I was listening the other day and some of the lyrics caught my attention - “…Paid my dues…  I've been working my whole life… “ and it seemed so fitting for both the disciplined athletes in the game, as well as the upcoming Olympics.  It got me to thinking about how we look at discipline in our daily lives.

When we discuss discipline it can be in regards to our self discipline, or our children being disciplined.   There are usually rules in place, and followed.  Often times it is easier to discipline our children vs ourselves.  People can be disciplined with money, work, sleep, eating, or drinking.  Most of these items are our base desires.  Now would our primitive brain love to spend, spend spend, not really work all that much, stay up to have a good time, and eat and drink whatever we want?  Most likely yes.  Discipline is the ability to have self control and restraint over these base desires.  

Interestingly many people think discipline is too constraining.  I want to suggest the opposite.  Being disciplined can lead to more freedom in your life, as well as offer an opportunity begin building the relationship you have with yourself.  Think of a child who knows they are not getting candy at the grocery store.  The rules have been set and are always stuck to.  The kid gets to the candy aisle, knows the rule, and no issues.  Now consider the kid that sometimes gets the candy, sometimes doesn’t and often throws a tantrum, tries to negotiate, and carries on in an attempt to get the candy.  The disciplined child requires less energy, and that effort can be used in a different area. 

The importance of discipline shows up when my clients are making food protocols and drink plans.  Often times there is resistance because it seems too restrictive.  Once you set a plan you stick to it and that is that.  Your brain may initially freak out but when you start honoring commitments to yourself you will build your confidence within.  You may not feel like eating what is on plan, or you may feel like having another drink, but the rules have been set.  Remain consistent to your plan and you will begin to see the changes in your life.  When you have decided in advance, and stick to the plan, you don’t have to take the mental energy to negotiate the extra cookie of glass of wine.  Listen - you are disciplined in brushing your teeth daily, likely you go to work on time, and my guess is you stay committed to your relationship.  Once you can carry this skill to your eating or drinking you will be amazed at what you can create in your life with the extra freedom!

Each week I offer 2 free mini sessions, first come first serve, to women who have had weight loss surgery and find themselves still struggling with food, or have developed a new struggle with overdrinking.  If you want to feel more in control and peaceful  Sign up here to discuss how my program may help you.  Once you sign up you will receive a call in number and appointment reminder.  Some may not be a fit, and that is fine - I consider it a privilege to offer free help in advance.