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Babystep #1 Explained: Mental Desire to Change
By Cindy | July 12, 2007
Table of contents for Babysteps
- An Overview of 10 Babysteps for Mom’s Fitness Journey
- Babystep #1 Explained: Mental Desire to Change
- Babystep #2 Explained: Medical Background
- Babystep #3 Explained: Determine Current Level of Fitness
- Babystep #4 Explained: Identify Time Constraints
- Babystep #5 Explained: Set Goals
- Babystep #6 Explained: Go Workout Mom!
- Babystep #7 Explained: Take It Slow
- Babystep #8 Explained: Try New Activities
- Babystep #9 Explained: Establish a Support System
- Babystep #10 Explained: Have Fun and Reward Success!
In An Overview of 10 Babysteps for Mom’s Fitness Journey, I wrote:
Physical body shape is not a factor in avoiding fitness unless it’s due to a medical condition. Our mindset is the critical factor in creating change. If my mind is not committed to the cause, I will either give a half-hearted attempt or make excuses to avoid the necessary actions to get results. {Check out Stages of Change from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).} Are you committed to getting fit? Let’s get started!
By reviewing the five Stages of Change, we acknowledge our potential and limits. Not everyone is ready for the mental commitment a physical fitness program might entail. By discovering thoughts that help us understand our mental resolve, fitness will become a part of our lives.
Stage 1: Change? No way!!!
My child expects me to be on breastfeeding call eight to ten times a day. I’m exhausted. The stacked up dishes remind me daily of my housecleaning shortfalls. Does this sound familiar? I bet the baby or babies are less than two months old! It does get better. I promise. Right now may not be the best time to focus on a fitness program. It’s okay to take a break. Many times the body needs a break. Take naps with the baby. Move around the house and take small walks with the stroller around the block.
Stage 2: Workout? Maybe.
My child is playing on the floor by himself. He’s rolling around and giggling. He’s sleeping well. Maybe I can start a workout video. What if I worked on crunches or leg lifts? Am I going to be able to get rid of the baby fat? Now, the thoughts are moving through the mind. It’s time to start grasping at the possibilities. Independence of child results in small bits and pieces of independence for Mom.
Stage 3: Paper and Pen in hand.
The plan is forming. Write out goals, activities, and thoughts to motivate the process of working out. It’s time to realize the potential. Dream and write. Look at the thoughts on paper.Stage 4: I’m Moving!
The goals are set. It’s time to go out and workout. Go Workout Mom! You’re doing great. This is where the habits form and the process builds. Start out simple. 10 minutes a day or several times a day are all you need to set the plan in motion.
Stage 5: I’m Still Moving!
No excuses, Mom. Mark the calendar; plug in the workout appointment. Make fitness a reality of healthy living. If it’s 10 minutes here or 45 minutes there, stick to the appointment, just as you’d be at the pediatrician’s office for your baby’s well-exam!
Where do you fall on the Stages of Change?
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Topics: Fitness Knowledge, Health Knowledge |
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