In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins; not through strength, but through persistence…over the years we’ve learned that it’s not the best gear, coolest music, most engaging workout or even the length of time spent exercising that brings the most success…it comes down to one key attribute, perseverance.
OK, so what is it and how do I get it?
Well, perseverance is defined as “persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success”. While talent, intelligence or skill are important indicators of future success, perseverance and strength of character are the vital ingredient to determine whether that success is realised.
And what does this vital ingredient have to do with maintaining a healthy lifestyle? Well, it’s not how much we know about health, exercise and diet, but what we actually do with that information that will determine our success. Instead of knowing everything and chasing the perfect healthy lifestyle, people who succeed at living healthily get their plan started…and then stick with it through thick and thin.
So there it is, and to some people, this might sound too simplistic, boring or even too daunting (you mean I have to do this ALL the time?). If you celebrate the small victories, the mini goals you set yourself along the road to your ultimate health goal then these will give you the encouragement to stick with your plan. Perseverance can be developed. By saying to yourself that you’re the person who never misses your workout or you’re the person that eats a healthy breakfast each day and then sticking to these promises you develop them as habits. Once you prove to yourself that you can do these tasks then they stick with you and, before you know it, you’ve persevered and proven to yourself that you have what it takes. Once you have proven that to yourself, it becomes a habit throughout all areas of your life, including your promise to live healthily…
Once perseverance has become a habit, the results follow…and once the results are celebrated as milestones to your ultimate aim then the whole process becomes fun! Ask us to help you develop the habit of perseverance.
