Repeat after me…
The brain is an inconsistent advisor.
Go to the gym, you’ll feel amazing afterwards.
But I’m sooo tired – and look, the new season of Empire is available.
***
That cake totally isn’t worth it + I don’t even like red velvet.
Come on, it’s a celebration. EVERYONE is eating cake.
***
It’s almost 11:00, better get to bed soon.
Just one. more. episode.
That’s why it’s up to you to decide whether to act on a piece of advice – or not.
If you want to achieve your goals, you’re going to have to become a pro at saying “no” to the committee in your head.
To help change our unproductive patterns of behavior, we can apply a behavioral change tool called opposite action.
Here’s how you do it…
If you’re struggling with a negative emotion, one that you can’t seem to shake – stop trying to “fight” or “resist” the feeling – and change your actions instead.
In other words, do the opposite of your urges in the moment you’re feeling the unpleasant emotion.
I know, it seems so simple, almost too simple – but stay with me…
Know that this technique won’t work if the emotion is justified – like when a beloved pet passes away. You’re going to feel sad no matter what you do, right?
But let’s say you’re feeling shame around your body. Maybe you just want to bury yourself under a blanket fort + binge watch Netflix + eat a pint of coffee caramel fudge ice cream.
You know this isn’t healthy. And you know it’s just going to lead to feeling even more shame. But it’s your go-to habit when feeling body shame.
What opposite action suggests is that you TAKE ACTION as a way to transform the emotion.
Maybe you call a friend – or go outside and breathe in the fresh air – or dance around the living room while belting out Adele or Taylor Swift or Queen Bey.
I can’t begin to tell you how often I use this tool in my own life – and how much of a difference it makes.
When we take actions that are aligned with our goals and values – slowly but surely, we start to feel better. And who doesn’t want to feel better?
XO ~Robyn
Weight Loss Coaching is not another fad diet or get thin quick scheme. It’s a pathway to sanity around food, a healthier you – and a more delicious life. No calorie counting required.
I work with determined + smart + courageous women who are ready to get off the diet rollercoaster – for good.
To learn more about private Weight Loss Coaching, click here to schedule a free Discovery Session or email me directly at robyn@chickadeeweightloss.com.