Sunday, October 11, 2009

What Are U Doin' With Your Toolbox? (Part 2)

In part 1, I spoke of creating a toolbox. The toolbox contains all the skills, knowledge, and support that any of us may need to set up ourselves for success. Each of us will have a different toolbox based on our strengths and weaknesses, and what our triggers may be.

As I mentioned before, I want to change my ways that defeat me. Now is the time to practice using those tools on the weekends and between boot camps while I am still at Adventure. Now, because I have the energy of the group, the support of my special friends at camp, and the smarts and experience of my Adventure camp leader. Brian creates a structured environment with all the components in place to form a new habit, a new lifestyle, and a new body if we want it. And if we falter, he will give us the motivation and juice we need to get back up on our feet, but also the opportunity to learn from our mistakes. Just like a fledgling, better to fall while I'm still in the nest and got a safety net to catch me, before I do too much damage too myself! :( (lol)

This is fertile learning ground for me, because here and now I can learn to navigate my life with all the temptations and challenges that have taken me down in the past, and still have the structure of Adventure to keep me centered. Therefore, when I have to leave for vacation or can't continue with my boot camp and trainer, I will have my fitness routine in place, and my eating under control.

So what tools will I include in my box that I know I need to succeed? Here it is:

1.) After losing so frequently with the food factor, one of the tools I am going to include is a food diary. This is essential for me to stay on track. I've tried it before and it helps me significantly. The downside is that is can be very time consuming. And that in itself can cause me stress if I don't have the time! Its all a balancing act, isn't it. :)

2.) I am going to find substitute foods that can satisfy me without causing me a total nosedive. Taking away foods that I enjoy will leave a hole. An unfilled hole is far more dangerous when I'm shaky, than a filled hole.

3.) I am printing all emails and pertinent articles that Brian sends us and put them in a 3 ring binder. So much of what he sends nourishes the mind and spirit, and teaches us to create the mindset of a successful person. I need to read often to keep my motivation up and stay focused. I want it handy; Not filed away in the computer.

4.) Based on the group experience of strength and camaraderie of Adventure Boot Camp, I realize that I need to create a system of accountability and support regarding my workout and nutrition. I have a friend who is working to achieve the same fitness and nutrition goals. We are going to check in at least every other day. But even with that, I need to be in a structured exercise group with others. My friends in Adventure Boot Camp are so fabulous and have inspired me more than they know.

5.) I need rest. Fatigue is a demon for me. It is the loose link in my chain and can trigger disorders I fight, as well as leave me in an emotional pothole. I have trouble accessing my energy, and fatigue will blow me out of the water.

What I have learned from Brian and his other premier trainers is "everything I need to succeed". They are not talking to hear themselves. Its time to use the tools I've acquired throughout my life and the ones from the Adventure team.

So what are you doing with your toolbox? Do you know what tools you need to succeed? It might take time to learn and practice using the knowledge we have, but it can only get better and easier. For me, the food factor is one of the most challenging issues I face when I am emotionally spent.

If there are any readers willing to share what they do to overcome their food vices, fatigue, or anything that has the power to cause self sabotage, I would love to hear from you. Perhaps by working together, we can accomplish what we struggle to achieve by ourselves.

the pinK tiger.....
dusting off the toolbox! :)

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