Locating & Clearing the log jam(s)
Often times, when trying to create new goals/habits for ourselves, we have to begin the process by removing things that make it harder for us to move forward smoothly. Sometimes we have to start by locating & dealing with the log jams upstream that are wreaking havoc on the flow of things downstream, where we’re wanting to go.
Example:
Goal: Make a healthier breakfast so you have more energy and feel fuller throughout your morning.
Log Jam: Your mornings are jam packed, the kitchen is a mess, and you don’t have any food at home. This has resulted in drive-thru breakfast or skipping food altogether & downing several cups of coffee. You’re dragging by 10:00am & starving/hangry by lunchtime.
Clearing the Log Jams:
Look up a few different higher protein breakfast options that you like: eggs, plain greek yogurt, cottage cheese, homemade protein shake recipe.
Go grocery shopping so these items are stocked at home.
Set your alarm 10-20 minutes earlier so you can make breakfast.
Laying out your work clothes & cleaning the kitchen the night before so it’s faster/easier to make breakfast in the morning.
Get all the ingredients together - or go ahead and make it - the night before.
Go to sleep 10-20 minutes earlier so you still get enough sleep (easier said than done, especially if you have small children).
Test, evaluate, change if needed.
Take time to work the process:
If you’ve been having trouble executing on a new goal, try blocking off a bit of time for yourself to actually go through this:
Evaluate the goal.
Identify the log jams blocking your way.
Brainstorm solutions & break them down into smaller steps.
Create a new routine that flows easier & see if that helps.
Give yourself time to work out the kinks. New logs may pop up & throw off your plan. It’s ok to re-work the routine.
Have grace with yourself:
If you feel crappy about not being able to start your new goal, don’t. It takes time & energy (& sometimes other resources) to deal with log jams. And the more logs in your way, the longer it takes to clear them.
Have patience. Don’t give up. Ask for help.
You’ve got this.