Shoes are a good example. Especially walking shoes — the ones with memory foam.
Most of the time we put on our shoes, head out on our daily walks and don’t think twice about them.
Many months later, even a year or more later, when our shoes start to show some wear, we might think about replacing them. But maybe not right away. We can wait awhile. They still work.
Eventually, we order a new pair. They are so clean compared to the well-worn pair. We slip them on, and one of two things happens, either: 1) they are a bit still and might even rub in a few places – we have to break them in or 2) they are so darn comfortable that we’ve forgotten what it feels like to have a springy sole readily cushioning our steps.
This happened to my husband and me. We’ve experienced both scenarios, which prompted another one of our daily walk conversations about living.
Why do we wait to do something—like replacing a pair of shoes? It doesn’t have to be shoes. Fill in the blank.
This same example applies to habits, including exercise and eating. We know what works for our bodies, and it feels good to have a healthy routine. One day, we make a different choice.
It happens again.
It happens again.
It happens again.
Slowly, without noticing it, the healthy routine is compromised. Maybe it shows up as a few pounds on the scale or a tighter waistband.
Exercise feels good.
Healthy eating feels good.
Yet, we wait.
If we wait to get back on track, it’s likely to have longer-term effects—the kind that takes a lot of time and effort to reverse.
Why do we let the detour happen in the first place? Why do we wait until the change takes effect? Why do we let it go until …
Unlike replacing a pair of walking shoes, we can’t replace our habits with a simple purchase. We have to walk the walk, commit to the change and recommit to doing the things that feel good and are good for us.
Today, I’m making a list—of course, I am—of things that feel good and are good for me. Just like memory foam, I know what feels good, and it includes having a spring in my step instead of trudging through life with deflated soles. What’s on your list of “good and good for you?”
Two Links Du Jour:
Why Do We Stop Doing The Things That Help Us? The Good Men Project® – The Conversation No One Else is Having®
What Feels Good Isn’t Always Good For Our Bodies – Harvard Business Review
Two Minutes Du Jour 