Habits That Changed You
KosmosKitten
Posts: 10,476 Member
in Chit-Chat
So, I thought it would be interesting (and insightful) if people who have been successful in their long term goals could share with the rest of Chit-Chat the not-so-well-known ins and outs of habits they picked up along the way that led to their long term success(es).
For instance, we all know that consuming less calories than we burn usually results in weight loss, but what about all the little habits you might have picked up that contributed to being able to stay under your calories.. or get that workout in no matter what?
What have you picked up in your years of living on planet Earth that have netted you small (or large) success in the long term? It can be in any sphere, not just health/fitness. Share what's worked for you as the year (and decade) closes!
For instance, we all know that consuming less calories than we burn usually results in weight loss, but what about all the little habits you might have picked up that contributed to being able to stay under your calories.. or get that workout in no matter what?
What have you picked up in your years of living on planet Earth that have netted you small (or large) success in the long term? It can be in any sphere, not just health/fitness. Share what's worked for you as the year (and decade) closes!
1
Replies
-
Not really fitness related, but I've learned to not take friendships and relationships with people too seriously. I used to get so worked up about being the best friend or included in everything that it drove everyone away and left me in a state of stress and depression. Just let things happen naturally and be there for people. 🤗💖8
-
Through MFP I have learned what "trigger foods" means (in my case loaves and loaves of bread) and what "food stacking" is all about - I must have been a champion of sorts in that field. Initially just walking a short distance with 170 kg / 375 pounds on my back was a painful chore - now, 635 days later I love my walks in nature and it is getting easier with 48 kg / over 100 pounds lost so far. One of MFP's success stories first thing in the morning always makes my day!2
-
At night before I go to sleep I spend 5 minutes writing down a to-do list for the next day of important things to get done. You’d be surprised how much things you can get done.
I also picked up the habit of writing a journal everyday, it helps organize my thoughts and ideas, helping you stay on track with your goals and puts you in an optimistic frame of mind. You learn so much about yourself writing daily.
The other important one for me is reading. I tend to read lots of books, and constantly learning new things.
There are many other habits, but these 3 helps me quite a bit.
5 -
darren556g wrote: »At night before I go to sleep I spend 5 minutes writing down a to-do list for the next day of important things to get done. You’d be surprised how much things you can get done.
I also picked up the habit of writing a journal everyday, it helps organize my thoughts and ideas, helping you stay on track with your goals and puts you in an optimistic frame of mind. You learn so much about yourself writing daily.
The other important one for me is reading. I tend to read lots of books, and constantly learning new things.
There are many other habits, but these 3 helps me quite a bit.
I do this. I write out a "to-do" list because otherwise, it won't get done.
Also, definitely agree with reading. I read every day if able and I thoroughly enjoy learning new things. I might have to give the journal writing a try, although I am reticent to leave my thoughts lying around for my spouse or my kid to find as all my thoughts are not pleasant.2 -
I think a lot of long-term success is being willing to experiment and find out what works for you as an individual. If what you are doing is a struggle you can't sustain, then don't be afraid to change the plan and try something different!
I like to walk a lot, so getting up from my desk as frequently as possible...using the stairs instead of the elevator...going to the restroom further away...parking in the far away lot even though closer parking is available...standing and doing little weights during conference calls...little things that add up to more activity over the course of the day.
Small food substitutions like zucchini noodles for pasta, or parmesan for other higher calorie cheeses, or almond flour for graham/cookie crusts...drinking water and tea or coffee all the time and thinking of soda as just for very rare special occasions.
Recognizing when I'm genuinely hungry and eating a healthy snack before I become a ravenous beast that eats everything within reach good, bad, or otherwise.2 -
Daily journal...mine is in the MFP Motivation Journals group...daily accountability is definitely key for me, both in logging, and in taking the time to reflect on how the day went and put it into words.1
-
I have a schedule and I don't stay up late at night.3
-
0
-
I just keep lifting (unless I'm injured or recovering from birth).1
-
Fitness related: scheduling it and recognizing that while I might not feel like doing it, I always feel better when I do.
Eating: drinking more water than I think I need. If I do get a craving, drinking some hot water or flavored tea before I cave to a snack.
Social: being more open, honest and vulnerable with people I don't know well. It's not my natural setting and it's something I have to actively work on. A lot of the things I assumed would scare new people away from interacting with me have not been an issue.3 -
CanesGalactica wrote: »
I go to bed at 9pm and I get up around 430-5am.2 -
Instead of listening to music while working out. I listen to inspirational speakers, trying to learn different languages and researching. All of this has actually helped me better myself and my team. The numbers don’t lie. Up, up, and up.3
-
Me too. It’s super late now cause it’s 10:20.GymGoddessGoals wrote: »CanesGalactica wrote: »
I go to bed at 9pm and I get up around 430-5am.
1 -
I love this idea!mommabear4315 wrote: »Instead of listening to music while working out. I listen to inspirational speakers, trying to learn different languages and researching. All of this has actually helped me better myself and my team. The numbers don’t lie. Up, up, and up.1 -
bobsburgersfan wrote: »
I love this idea!mommabear4315 wrote: »Instead of listening to music while working out. I listen to inspirational speakers, trying to learn different languages and researching. All of this has actually helped me better myself and my team. The numbers don’t lie. Up, up, and up.
Same here. I've nothing to add, but am learning a lot. Keep it up, please! Love the q, Canes.0 -
TarryTaffy wrote: »bobsburgersfan wrote: »
I love this idea!mommabear4315 wrote: »Instead of listening to music while working out. I listen to inspirational speakers, trying to learn different languages and researching. All of this has actually helped me better myself and my team. The numbers don’t lie. Up, up, and up.
Same here. I've nothing to add, but am learning a lot. Keep it up, please! Love the q, Canes.TarryTaffy wrote: »bobsburgersfan wrote: »
I love this idea!mommabear4315 wrote: »Instead of listening to music while working out. I listen to inspirational speakers, trying to learn different languages and researching. All of this has actually helped me better myself and my team. The numbers don’t lie. Up, up, and up.
Same here. I've nothing to add, but am learning a lot. Keep it up, please! Love the q, Canes.
Great! That's why I decided to ask. I wanted to see what was successful for others and see if maybe I could utilize the tips for myself (or have it here for others who are in a similar situation).1 -
I used to dine out a LOT more. I still probably hit up restaurants more than a lot of MFP users, as I go out for lunch once a week with my dad, and Saturdays my husband and I usually eat out for lunch and/or dinner. I also have dinner out with friends monthly or so. So I dine out roughly 12 times a month out of ~90 meals.
But the majority of the time Sunday-Friday, my meals are cooked at home - breakfast, lunch & dinner. That's been a big improvement for me I think. I don't believe restaurant meals or even fast food choices are "bad" but for me it was more of the attitude, like "I had a rough day so I'll treat myself to this sushi". For the past 6.5 years, that's not been an option I even consider every night after work (as it was for a VERY long time).
Not only is it easier to control my portions and calories by cooking at home, but I also think when I do go out I enjoy it more. And it can save money as well!1 -
I've not only lost my weight and am officially at maintenance, I have learned so much this year that I attribute to small changes.
Balancing my macros was one that I found a huge success in. I eat more of a 30 split amongst the three with the wiggle room making up the last ten percent. Upping my lean protein and supplementing with protein powder shakes has supported that cause. I'm leaner and stronger as well.
I know that may seem like more of a huge step, but it was incremental. First I began to focus on fewer low quality carbs and filled that gap with higher protein items. Then I would orefull my diary so that I could look and balance things out and adjust as necessary. I have gotten better and more understanding through this learning process.1 -
Pre-planning: both food and my workouts. Packing stuff the night before or cooking in advance & freezing. Takes away the "oh, let's go out to eat" excuse.1
-
empresssue wrote: »Pre-planning: both food and my workouts. Packing stuff the night before or cooking in advance & freezing. Takes away the "oh, let's go out to eat" excuse.
Got any tips for meal-planning and pre-prep? I'd like to get better at it.0 -
I find it's easier if I plan for the same kind of food for 2 of my meals: like oatmeal for breakfast & chicken & a veggie for lunch. Prep is easier. Planning is easier.
As for dinners, I try to overcook a bit so I have leftovers, which I either save for the next night or so or I freeze for the future. I often do this on Sundays cuz I have more time usually.0 -
empresssue wrote: »I find it's easier if I plan for the same kind of food for 2 of my meals: like oatmeal for breakfast & chicken & a veggie for lunch. Prep is easier. Planning is easier.
As for dinners, I try to overcook a bit so I have leftovers, which I either save for the next night or so or I freeze for the future. I often do this on Sundays cuz I have more time usually.
Doesn't overcooking make it less tasty?0 -
empresssue wrote: »I find it's easier if I plan for the same kind of food for 2 of my meals: like oatmeal for breakfast & chicken & a veggie for lunch. Prep is easier. Planning is easier.
As for dinners, I try to overcook a bit so I have leftovers, which I either save for the next night or so or I freeze for the future. I often do this on Sundays cuz I have more time usually.
Doesn't overcooking make it less tasty?
Literal, are we? Hmmm, I try to cook more than I'll eat
0 -
empresssue wrote: »empresssue wrote: »I find it's easier if I plan for the same kind of food for 2 of my meals: like oatmeal for breakfast & chicken & a veggie for lunch. Prep is easier. Planning is easier.
As for dinners, I try to overcook a bit so I have leftovers, which I either save for the next night or so or I freeze for the future. I often do this on Sundays cuz I have more time usually.
Doesn't overcooking make it less tasty?
Literal, are we? Hmmm, I try to cook more than I'll eat
Oh, communication can be fun!!1 -
I will enter food ahead of time, to see what I can fit into my daily allotment.
For example, I plan my lunch the day before. So I know how many calories I'm going to have for my afternoon snacking and Diner.1 -
Drinking my first martini 🍸 damn you alcohol gods damn you!!!0
-
mattig89ch wrote: »I will enter food ahead of time, to see what I can fit into my daily allotment.
For example, I plan my lunch the day before. So I know how many calories I'm going to have for my afternoon snacking and Diner.
Good idea. I only eat one meal/day, but I do the same. And, occasionally, I have carry-over calories. If the 5 olives & 1 potato will bring me over the daily limit, I deduct them from the next day & then eat less following day.0
Categories
- All Categories
- 1.4M Health, Wellness and Goals
- 393.4K Introduce Yourself
- 43.8K Getting Started
- 260.2K Health and Weight Loss
- 175.9K Food and Nutrition
- 47.4K Recipes
- 232.5K Fitness and Exercise
- 424 Sleep, Mindfulness and Overall Wellness
- 6.5K Goal: Maintaining Weight
- 8.5K Goal: Gaining Weight and Body Building
- 153K Motivation and Support
- 8K Challenges
- 1.3K Debate Club
- 96.3K Chit-Chat
- 2.5K Fun and Games
- 3.7K MyFitnessPal Information
- 24 News and Announcements
- 1.1K Feature Suggestions and Ideas
- 2.6K MyFitnessPal Tech Support Questions