Title: Transform Your Weight Loss Journey: Embrace Slow Progress
Written on
Chapter 1: The Power of a New Mindset
If there's one piece of advice I wish everyone grappling with weight loss could absorb, it’s this: a shift in mindset can be transformative.
In less than a year, I shed 56 pounds—equivalent to lugging around my golf bag filled with clubs or a hefty old laser printer from my previous desk job that I detested.
In a candid conversation with my past self, who struggled with his weight, I'd emphasize the importance of 'taking it slow.'
Initially, this may sound counterproductive; after all, when you're feeling stagnant, why would you want to slow down even more? However, my insistence on rapid progress led me into a cycle of false starts.
The enticing prospect of achieving my dream body often clashed with the immediate gratification of indulging in a chocolate bar, a beer, or a cheesy jacket potato, creating a mental tripwire that derailed my grand aspirations.
Much of my motivation stemmed from iconic figures like Rocky and Muhammad Ali, alongside the belief that pain was synonymous with results. This "No pain, no gain" mentality erected an insurmountable barrier in my mind regarding fitness.
The self-sabotage was akin to driving a vehicle with the handbrake engaged. My approach to dieting was so stringent that it inevitably drove me to binge on chocolate and junk food just before I planned to "get back on track tomorrow."
I constantly postponed my goals to the next Monday, month, or year. Looking back, it’s clear I was trapped in a cycle predicated on speed and urgency.
I craved quick results not just for myself, but to demonstrate to others that I had succeeded. This desire hindered my weight loss journey.
Gary Vaynerchuk, a prominent entrepreneur, articulated this mindset as detrimental in business, which resonated with my struggles in health and wellness: “Speed is the devil; haste leads to mistakes, prompting over-analysis and shortcuts.”
Stop waiting for the microwave timer to beep.
Darren Hardy, a self-improvement expert, refers to this hurried mindset as "Microwave Mentality." In his bestselling book, The Compound Effect, he argues that we must eliminate the expectation of instant results, comparing it to the convenience of fast food or microwave meals.
It’s often said that daily habits accumulate over time to yield results. However, I believe the key is to find a way to initiate that first small step.
For me, it was a pivotal announcement from the UK Prime Minister during the pandemic urging us to "stay at home to save lives."
The monotony of working from an office with plastic barriers and a one-way system propelled me to A: seek a new career and B: get outdoors for a walk.
The relief it provided from pandemic-related anxiety became a daily ritual, dissociated from the idea of exercising for weight loss. I wasn't waiting for the microwave timer—I began taking walks at lunchtime, in the evenings, and occasionally in the mornings.
One weekend, I motivated myself to try running. I reached the end of my street but persuaded myself to walk the rest. On another attempt, I ventured a bit further, gradually transitioning into one, two, then three 5km runs each week.
By allowing myself to take it slow, I shifted my mindset towards gradual progress. This led me to a $30-a-month gym membership and a consistent weight training routine, which positively impacted other aspects of my life.
I started incorporating small changes into my diet, such as snacking on fruit and increasing my water intake due to my body craving hydration from exercise.
Before long, my progress was astounding. I committed to an online coach, which enabled me to lose 33 pounds—an achievement I couldn’t have realized alone.
The momentum I gained felt unstoppable, transforming what was once a difficult journey into a manageable and fulfilling one.
203 pounds on the left and 170 pounds on the right.
Final Reflections
Adopting a "slow and steady" approach meant I was no longer yearning for a quick fix. This mindset also reduced my encounters with failure, which in turn bolstered my confidence to push myself a bit further each time.
What once felt like an imposing skyscraper now resembled a small Lego piece in my mind.
Start by slowing down and focusing on small steps; you’ll witness the magic unfold.
Special Offer for My Readers
Chris, the online fitness expert who transformed my journey, is extending a free discovery call exclusively for my readers.
If you're prepared to change your fitness routine and create a personalized plan that fits your lifestyle, this is your opportunity to take your first small step. Tap and hold the link to book your FREE call with Chris and embark on your path to a healthier, fitter you. (affiliate link).
Chapter 2: Practical Tips for Sustainable Weight Loss
To delve deeper into effective weight loss strategies, consider watching these insightful videos.
The first video, HOW TO BE HEALTHY AND WEIGHT LOSS TIPS (that actually work), provides practical advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The second video, 8 Odd Weight Loss Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner, shares unique insights that could change your approach to weight loss.