Last night I thought about quitting.
Quitting my business.
Quitting healthy eating.
Quitting my strength training program.
I had a total crazy town moment.
Truth is – I think about quitting all the time. It’s tempting to quit. Quitting is easy. It gives us immediate relief from our challenge.
But when we quit, we forgo feelings of accomplishment and pride.
Of knowing we’re capable of pushing through when things get tough.
Of realizing our dreams.
That said, quitting isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes it’s just what we need to do. But it’s important to take the time to sort it out. Really important.
I knew I didn’t want to quit all of those things. I knew my feelings of frustration were an opportunity in disguise. An opportunity to get to know myself better.
So that’s what I did this morning. I scheduled a big old meeting with myself.
And since you’re reading this blog post, it’s safe to say I didn’t quit my business or healthy eating or exercise.
As always, my clients amazed, inspired and challenged me in the best ways possible today. They reminded me of why I do this work and why I started this business. I ate beautiful, nutritious and delicious food and worked out with gusto and a renewed sense of purpose.
What to Do When You Want to Quit
Ask yourself the following questions.
- Am I feeling overly emotional? If so, do not make a decision or answer questions 2-4 until you’re feeling less charged.
- Why do I want to quit? Do I like this reason?
- Will quitting help me get more or less of what I want?
- If I quit, how will I feel about it in one month? One year?
I’ve quit things that felt good (skiing, the corporate world) and I’ve quit things that felt bad (a writing course, a networking group) – there is a monumental difference.
Don’t judge yourself for wanting to quit. Wanting to quit means you’re doing something outside of your comfort zone. It’s supposed to feel – uncomfortable.
When that discomfort isn’t moving you closer to what you want, then it’s time to reflect and consider your options.
Never quit impulsively. Quit deliberately.
Robyn Spurr is a Certified Health Coach, Weight Loss Coach, Personal Trainer and founder of Chickadee Weight Loss. She helps women reach their healthy, natural weight and stay there without all the diet craziness.
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