If you’ve read my story, you know that I never intentionally set out on a fitness journey. I sort of stumbled into this lifestyle one small change at a time, and my biggest motivator is progress of a n y kind. One of the first aspects of my lifestyle to change was my activity level. I made movement a habit and almost immediately F E L T better. Wellness journey – kickstarted.
At 21 years old, when I began my first year of teaching, I did most of my teaching sitting down – totally against every best practice I believed in, but I was tired and lazy. I got home from work and ate pita chips and spinach dip until they were just about gone, and then went out to dinner and enjoyed a drink or two with friends. Every day. Thinking back on this makes me cringe. I was comfortable doing a whole lot of nothing, and I packed on the pounds [and the misery] pretty quickly.
I wanted to make a change, but I had no idea how/where to start. So, I started walking. A lot. I figured I couldn’t go wrong here. I got obsessed with my Fitbit and was determined to hit my step goal every day. I walked around my neighborhood, around the playground at recess, on the treadmill, etc . . . any chance I could get. You guys – almost instantly, like not even a week later, I started to feel SO much better. I had more energy in the classroom, and I was not nearly as exhausted when I got home from work. Even better? I didn’t even want to eat the pita chips and spinach dip or drink 4 beers [understatement] every night. My eating habits began to change and hellooooo progress! My body was changing, I was feeling better, and I was hooked.
Over time [slowly] I embraced a lifestyle of movement and activity. Here’s how I make m o v e m e n t a priority every day:
- I stand up every chance I get throughout the day.
- Walk around – in the classroom, through the building, up and down the stairs, at recess, etc . . .
- Park farther away [those spots are never taken].
- Date day usually involves something active – hiking, exploring a new place on foot, walking around the neighborhood, etc . . . Groupon has great deals on the fun stuff, and these make the best memories!
- Accountability. It helps to have people holding you accountable, and I’m super thankful for my people. Looking to join one? Click here!
- Exercise. I wake up and head to the gym first thing in the morning, but if you’re not here yet – stick with the first 5. You’ll get here!
Small changes – one at a time – turned into a lifestyle that I truly enjoy. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Pick one thing, and start there. S o m e t h i n g is better than nothing. Here are the first five changes I made. Choose one to focus on this week, and add on the others as you’re ready.
What are you working towards this week? I’d love to cheer you on!
XO, Kristen
