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The Willpower Instinct - Chapter One

I am reading this book to develop the willpower required to tackle my goals.

The beauty of this Book is broken down into Chapters, with a goal and experiment in each. You build off the following week.

Chapter One is about setting your challenge, developing your 'I will', 'I won't' and 'I want' goals, finding your trigger (early every time) and meditation (strengthening your frontal cortex).

I posted my 'I' goals and have stuck to them the entire week, reciting them in my head when temptation wanes. I will get health, I won't sabotage myself, I want to be fit. I can proudly say I haven't slipped on my diet or fitness intentions, even adding kick-boxing to my routine.

Just from that I have lost 5lbs.

I have a journal of my triggers. Who knew they were rooted in waste?! I hate wasting food. That's why when I am full, but there is food on my plate, I continue to eat; why I eat off of my son's plates (they never eat); why I indulge on things before I have to throw them away; why a party with a good spread in the worst for me (FOMO). I hate wasting. It feels like a... waste. It feels ungrateful, especially when its meat (I am not vegetarian, but want to make sure everything was used when a life is taken. I cry over a chicken carcass).

This realization has changed my portion sizes and my expectations with the boys. I don't load their plates and fight for them to eat. I offer the healthiest stuff first and then add if they're still hungry. It's working so far and taking the anxiety out of meal time.

And for me, I don't over prep. I prep for 3 days at a time instead of the whole week. It means an extra grocery shop, and more time in the kitchen, but it's time well spent.

The meditation was the part I thought I would struggle with most, but I love it. I am able to stay with my breath and maintain through the entire 6 minutes (I started at 5, but since moved to 6 -- on my way to 10). I find it helps with the cravings and really re-establishes my goals, when they can get lost in the chaos that is everyday life.

I am about to dive into Chapter Two.

I am about to prepare larger goals, my 2 year plan is coming together (but more on that later).

Health-i-esque yours,

Melp



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