One of the things that I love about exercise it that it is a time for me to reflect and learn about myself. Today I went to run hills at my local park and it was very windy. I am kind of a wimp when it comes to weather. I have lived in Minnesota most of my life. Minnesota is well-known for how cold it is. I remember walking to school in college one day and it was -70! You would think I would be used to the cold by now but that is not the case. Anyway this is what started me thinking this morning.
So I am trying to run hills through the wind and complaining to myself. At the same time I am giving myself a pep talk. “Okay Gina, you only have to go up and down this hill 5 times and then you are done. Remember there are people who have to endure worse weather than this.” Then I started to think about that kind of thinking. I have heard people say that telling someone that someone else is worse off than you really doesn’t make us feel better. Instead of thinking about someone being worse off than you, you should think about what you are thankful for in your life. So I tried it. I started to count my blessings. I have so many things to be thankful for; my kids, my husband, my family. I have a roof over my head and food to eat. I have a job. I am very lucky.
It was amazing how quickly this changed my attitude. I was no longer complaining and I could finish my run without trouble. The wind didn’t even bother me anymore. I felt happy. I was actually very surprised at how easily and quickly this worked.
It now seems silly that I was complaining about wind. But you know how little things can just get to you sometimes. Some little thing can just ruin your day or make you turn around and not exercise? I was tempted to call it quits this morning. Although I know myself and if I didn’t run I knew I would disappointed. My point for you as far as getting yourself motivated to exercise and eat healthy is to stop complaining and start being thankful for what you have. Do it everyday. It will change your attitude and help you reach your goals.
I recently read about what complaining does to your life. It tells the universe that you are not ready for new challenges that will better your situation. I find that very interesting. It says, I can’t handle what is on my plate already so please don’t give me any more. We should want more. This is how we improve and get and stay healthy emotionally and physically.
It is also a fact that counting your blessings attracts more blessings into your life. Tell the universe that you are thankful for what it has given you and it will give you more. So it is really a win win situation.
Stop complaining and be thankful!