I think a lot of what holds people back from attaining their goals – especially those which are more fitness and health related – is the incessant toxicity that permeates their life. In a way, it’s almost as if we’re all self-sabotaging ourselves, playing the role of enabler to continue sucking at whatever it is we’re sucking at.
Rather than take responsibility for our own actions and hold ourselves accountable, we “accept” things as the way they’re supposed to be, and grow immune to change. Or worse, we just say something lame like “oh, I’ll start getting up early on Monday to go to the gym,” as if the weekend was some sort of free-pass or mulligan to stay complacent.
It goes without saying that in order to change something in our lives – whether it’s something physical, emotional, mental, or whatever – we have to WANT to make those changes. I think we can all agree with that, right?
But one thing that I feel many people fail to comprehend is the notion that we’re all drowning in toxicity that surrounds us.
What do I mean?
Food
I like what Krista Scott Dixon as to say on the matter:
You think your “willpower” is strong enough to keep you out of the potato chips after a tough day of not stabbing your boss? Hah! Make sure the chips aren’t there, make sure some tasty crunchy veggies are there, and then you don’t have to use your over-booked thinky brain to make that decision.
It’s a simple solution, but if the double-stuffed Oreo’s aren’t there – even in your super secret hiding spot – to eat once you’re home from work, you won’t eat them.
Get rid of the toxicity.
Make time to go shopping for more nutritious foods (this is the accountability part). MAKE A LIST, and stick to it. Those who make lists are less likely to buy the Cheese Whiz that’s on sale. Likewise, reduce temptation by staying more in the periphery of the store where the meats and fresh produce reside.
And since we’re on the topic: Buy whole eggs and not the egg whites you Pruis driving, John Mayer listening douche.
Gym
I don’t know about you, but (most) commercial gyms are a joke. Of course, anything that gets people off their ass and exercising is a good thing, but itt’s almost as if training is an afterthought at most of these places, what with HD television screens attached to every piece of equipment and lunk alarms going off whenever someone lifts something heavier than a purse.
Not only that, how in the hell is anyone supposed to get strong with ambient music playing in the background and when no chalk is allowed?
I’ve always stressed that one of the “x-factors” with regards to training is environment. It’s an often overlooked component and something that more people should pay attention to.
NOTHING beats training around like-minded individuals who are going to push you and encourage you to take your body to the limits. Hell, nothing beats training in a gym that actually has more squat racks than treadmills.
This is actually one of the reasons why I like CrossFit. Sure most everything else about it makes a small part of my soul die, but you can’t argue the overwhelming sense of camaraderie that it instills in its members. I dig that.
Even if it’s only once per week, find a gyn that doesn’t suck. Get rid of the toxicity.
People
You’re the summation of the five people you hang out with the most.
No really, you are.
Take me for example. Just last week I was chilling with the likes of Chuck Norris, Mr. T, Jack Bauer, Papa Smurf, and Alicia Keys.
Okay, I lied. I didn’t really hang out with Alicia Keys. But if we did, it would have been awesome.
In all seriousness, though, if you have friends who are more concerned with what beer specials are at which bars during the week or who are constantly chastising or judging you on your healthy lifestyle, screw em! Get rid of them. Or, at the very least, limit your time with them.
By that same token, no one wants to be around a Johnny Raincloud all the time. If you have friends or colleagues who are constantly bringing you down into their valley of gloom and negativity, as harsh as it sounds, get rid of them. Who needs it? You certainly don’t!
Having a strong and supportive social network is kind of a big deal and something you DESERVE to have. Get rid of the toxicity!
Other things come into play here, too.
Turn off the television and pick up a book every once in a while.
Go see an art house film rather than your typical, mindless popcorn movie. This isn’t to say popcorn movies don’t have their place – Dark Knight Rises, anyone? – but you may be surprised at how enjoyable watching a movie with some substance (and an actual plot) might be. Too, art house films usually show lots of boobies! Just an FYI.
Travel!
Go for a walk. Seriously, people forget how beneficial a simple nightly walk can be.
Get off the elliptical and pick up something heavy.
Buy THIS book.
Adopt a pet.
Get off Facebook and live a REAL life and interact with REAL people.
Do some hill sprints.
Try new foods! Preferably ones that are green or used to have a face.
Have any other tips for those looking to remove the toxicity in their life? Share them below!
