Put Up Your Blinders

Getting healthier, whether it be losing weight, balancing hormones, sleeping better, and feeling more energized can be extremely challenging, especially when it feels like everyone else is making progress while you're stuck in a cycle of frustration and self-doubt.

You look around, see others achieving their fitness goals, and wonder why you can't seem to attain the same success.

It's a feeling that can be defeating!  

And for this reason we want to share a very powerful lesson we recently learned from horses!

Yes, horses!  Have you ever watched them race, and noticed they all wear blinders?

These blinders, restrict their peripheral vision during a race, and offer a powerful metaphor for finding your focus and achieving your own health goals.

The Frustration of Comparison:

When you're on a weight loss journey, it's natural to compare yourself to others. Social media, magazines, and even friends and family can make it seem like everyone else is effortlessly shedding pounds and achieving their fitness dreams. This constant comparison can lead to frustration and self-doubt, much like the distractions that surround a racehorse.

Embracing Your Individual Path:

Just as each racehorse has its unique abilities and challenges, you have your own strengths and weaknesses on your weight loss journey. The key to success is learning to embrace your individuality and focus on your path rather than being distracted by others.

Putting on Your Blinders:

Imagine putting on the blinders that racehorses wear. In your case, these metaphorical blinders represent the power of narrowing your focus on your goals, your progress, and the actions you can take to achieve them. Here's how to do it:

• Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Define specific, measurable, and realistic weight loss goals for yourself, not based on anyone else's goals for you. Having a clear target will help you stay focused and motivated.
• Develop a Personalized Plan: Work with a coach or nutritionist to create a plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences. This plan will serve as your roadmap, guiding you toward your own individual goals.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your achievements, no matter how small they may seem (see this blog post on Non Scale Goals). Celebrate your victories along the way to stay motivated.
• Limit External Distractions: Just as blinders shield racehorses from distractions, limit your exposure to negative influences that might hinder your progress. Unfollow social media accounts that trigger comparison or self-doubt; go ahead and hit that block button!
• Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to stay present and focused. Meditation, deep breathing, and visualization can help you maintain clarity and determination. You can check out the many blogs Stacia has on Mindset and Meditation.
• Celebrate Your Journey: Remember that your weight loss journey is unique to you. Just as racehorses focus on the finish line, keep your eyes on your own goals and progress. Celebrate every step forward, no matter how small, and acknowledge that your path may have twists and turns. Embrace the journey itself as a source of growth and self-discovery.

Your journey to better health is a deeply personal journey, and it's crucial to remember that comparing yourself to others will only lead to frustration and self-doubt.

By adopting the mindset of a racehorse wearing blinders, you can find your focus, stay committed to your goals, and ultimately achieve the success you desire.

Keep your eyes on your own path, and you'll discover the power to transform not only your body but also your mindset and self-confidence along the way. Blinders on!