The power of the mind and self-image can be such a strong asset or hindrance in our lives, especially when it comes to healthy living. We have the power to push ourselves, have self-control or ruin ourselves and beat ourselves up for our mistakes in all we do. This variance can take you from excellence to self-sabotage in minutes.
I have noticed a theme from people all around the Cantrell that many struggle with self-sabotage. From staff, members and patients there seems to be such a strive for perfection, which is a good thing, until you mess up. The people that I have spoken to about self-sabotage have no grace for themselves whatsoever. The problem with perfection is that it doesn’t exist in healthy living. We all like to eat things that aren’t great for us and we all skip workouts, and that’s OK as long as you don’t allow it to derail your journey.
The trick is to find balance and grace in what you do. If you eat something terrible that you really don’t want to log, log it anyways. Look at those numbers and know that you are not defeated. When you feel like you have just blown it, don’t give up! Every choice you make has the opportunity to be the right one. Every Day is a New Day! Someone told me that if they ate something bad on Tuesday, they used to say to themselves“Well, I messed up, this week is blown. I will just eat whatever and start back on Monday”. If that is your mindset, you are in for a real battle. If you are able to give yourself grace and realize that we all eat sweets and treats that we could probably do without, then your journey will be more effective and enjoyable.
I myself have a massive sweet tooth! Even this last weekend I gave in and ate an ice-cream cone that I had been craving for weeks. I do not regret my choice nor do I think I blew my week, but it is not something I can have every day. The important thing is balance! If I eat all the ice-cream I really want, I would never reach my goals, but it’s not the enemy. 
Always remember healthy living is not a battle, it’s a journey. If you slip up, do not give up all hope. You Got This! Keep your mind right and you will be fine! You and I can make it to the next level in our journey as long as we keep at it and enjoy the ride!
About the Author
Water Aerobics Instructor and PT Aide, Alex McWhorter, was attracted to the Cantrell Center because of the atmosphwere. Before becoming an employee, Alex was first a member of the Cantrell Center. She lost a substantial amount of weight in 2012 and it all began with the Cantrell Center 5K. Since then, she has shifted from a sedentary lifestyle to an active lifestyle and calls that decision the best one she’s ever made. When asked what she loves most, she said, “I get paid to work out!! And I get to be outside and in the water, two of my favorite things! I also get to make new friends while supporting, coaching, and mentoring others to reach their goal of living a healthier lifestyle.”
