Years ago I trained a client who was late almost every time. Somewhere a person is reading this and wondering if I am talking about them.
Since they were late so often, I asked them one time why she was late every single time since we start at the same time every day. In a nice way, of course. She explained to me that one time it took her 7 minutes to get to class, so that is exactly how much time she gave herself to get there.
Turns out she was 7 minutes away under perfect conditions. No traffic, no red lights, etc... She had never really thought about it before and she started getting to class on time.
Now one person really knows I am talking about her 🙂
The point of this is not to be on time, although that is important too. The main thing I want you to remember is to never compare yourself to anyone else. Even if that person is you.
Over the years I have had several women tell me what they did to lose weight the last time. Most of them start with "When I was 22 I (insert diet or exercise program) and got great results really quickly. Not sure why this is taking so long. What am I doing wrong?"
The majority of the women in my classes are 40's and older, have kids, and work full time jobs. That is a completely different situation from a 22 year old with less responsibility, stress, hormone changes, etc...
Even if you are doing everything right, it might take awhile! Don't try to compare yourself to that 22 year old you, she is completely different.
Focus on making changes, not comparisons. You've probably heard the quote from Teddy Roosevelt, "Comparison is the thief of joy." Try to think of occasions in your life when comparisons had a positive impact on you. Probably very little to work with there.
Instead, focus on what you have control over. What can you do today to get closer to your goal?
This ties back into Monday's message about identity and processes. Incremental progress is still progress and should be celebrated and encouraging to you.
-If you lost an ounce, you are on your way.
-If you worked out once this week, it's a start.
-If you drank water instead of your usual sweet tea, great job!
You are looking for progress, not perfection. Stay the course, avoid comparison, be positive, and you will get there. You might even get there on time.