Being vs. Doing, A Slightly Different Approach to Fitness

The gyms are packed from January to early March. It is difficult to find a place to park your car. There is often a wait to use the exercise equipment. The fitness classes are elbow to elbow and the die-hards are annoyed that their space in class has been taken. New members are diligently following their workout log sheets as they scurry from machine to dumbbells. But by late spring the regulars are usually relieved that this is no longer the case. Many New Year “Resolutioners” have given up on their exercise and are once again disappointed in themselves that they have not gotten it “done”. My experience in the health and fitness industry for twenty years has led me to believe that a large reason many are unable to adhere to a healthy regime or an exercise program is because it is one more thing to “do”.

As a society we put a lot of emphasis on all that we do. We believe that if we do this and do that or accomplish this and accomplish that, then we will have a sense of self-worth or value. We charge out of bed (or stammer as in my case) when the alarm rudely awakens us and set out to conquer our “to do” list. I am totally in favor of to do list and find that they help me stay focused on my goals. However, at times my lists have grown long enough for two people! Why do we wonder then, that our exercise regimen does not get crossed off the list, or even make it onto the list? I have learned after years of over-doing that I actually reach my goals more efficiently and with less effort by spending more time at simply “being”.

“Being” for me is a total acceptance of myself at any given moment regardless of what I am or am not “doing”. It is letting go of judgments. It is to know that what I “do” or not “do” has nothing to “do” with my self-worth or value. It is to know that I have value without constant doing. It is to know that I am unique and special simply because I am here. This small shift in perspective gives me more energy and helps me to prioritize and “do” only what is important to me.

To help you have your healthiest and most fit year ever or to help you move toward other goals with less effort, I suggest the following:

1. Totally and completely accept all aspects of yourself unconditionally. Yes, even those extra pounds of body fat!

2. Make a decision to nurture and be gentle to yourself each day.

3. Replace negative self-talk with kind words. Talk to yourself as you would talk to your best friend.

4. Know from the bottom of your heart that you’re a beautiful worthy “Being” just because you exist.

5. Allow this knowing (#4) to move you through your day.

If you will actively “do” these simple things, you’ll experience higher energy levels and be more apt to exercise. You’ll gravitate toward more positive choices in every area of your life, from food to relationships. You will find yourself knowing who you truly are.