The liberating power of personal rules

by


Without reminders + soft bumps + bumpers that keep us on our lane, we will inevitably default to autopilot mode.

In other words, we will do what we have always done.

Autopilot works brilliantly when we are not interested in changing our actions, but when it comes to self-improvement, it is kryptonite.

If you are serious about becoming better, you will need ..

1. Self-awareness
2. Reporting tools
3. Personal rules

Yes – the rules.

Guidelines. Instructions. Behavior. Habits Call them if you like.

The idea of ​​setting rules for life inspires fear to most people. We immediately remember all the times when unfair or cruel rules were imposed on us – or times when we tried to live according to intolerable voluntary rules (do not eat after 6:00).

I.e not what I'm talking about

Below is a list of my current daily habits.

  • To go for a walk
  • Eat at least 5 servings of vegetables
  • Keep a daily journal (3 things that would make wonderful today + 3 things for which I am grateful and why)
  • Do at least 2 sets of one strength exercise.
  • Publish EVERYTHING consumed on YouAte (food journaling application)

I track each of my daily habits in an app called Habit Share. My steps are tracked using Fitbit.

Why all applications?

If you do not know what you are doing, then it is very difficult to change your life with any consistency. Trying to develop better habits without self-awareness is like flying blindly.

Rules are often associated with a lack of freedom. But setting the rules for yourself is completely different. Freedom is the whole point.

Forced rules are not limitations, but limits of behavior that you set yourself, based on your own experience and wisdom.

A good personal rule frees you from having to stop and negotiate with you on the same issues for the hundredth time. Should I drink the third? Should I go for a walk today? Should I order a salad?

Despite our fear of the rules, acting in accordance with a thoughtful personal rule does not seem to be deterrent. Instead, it creates a deep sense of strength and independence.

Trainer tips:

  • Choose rules that will make your life better and set you up for success. Rules that are not so complex, you can not observe at least 80% of the time.
  • Choose rules that add and improve (eat a portion of vegetables for dinner, go for a walk), and do not subtract (without sugar).
  • Experiment with short-term rules (14 days, February month). Be curious. Try. Test. To explore.
  • Use accountability tools (Habit Share, Fitbit, YouAte, Coach)
  • Choose rules that gently stretch you in the right direction.
  • Most importantly, choose rules that feel love, not punishment.

XO ~ Robin

Interested in one-on-one coaching relationships with me? It would be an honor to work with you if the time is right.

To learn more about Personal Health Coaching, click HERE.

To schedule a discovery session, click HERE.

<! –

->