Master the Mind

How many times have you heard “it’s all in your head”? You’ve probably heard it more than you care to remember. Well, a huge part of getting fit and staying fit is your mindset.

Really, it all begins with self image (see the “Self Image” tab). Self image is the way you think about yourself. Do you see yourself as a thin person or an overweight person? So you see yourself as confident and self sufficient or do you view yourself as shy, needy, and not very likeable? Once you get your self image in line with your goals, things will flow more smoothly for you.

Speaking of goals, the next big step is proper goal setting. For more in-depth information on goal setting, see the “Goal Setting” tab. Also, in the book, “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle”, by Tom Venuto, he goes into great detail about both self image and setting goals. This is a fantastic read if you are serious about fitness. So, once you know where you want to go, now is the time to map out your plan. It’s a proven fact that when you write down your goal you are much more likely to achieve it. So, write down where you are right now and where you want to be. Next, write down the steps needed to attain your goal(s). Sometimes you may even need to break it down into very small steps. Here’s an example:

Goal: Weigh 115 pounds

Current Weight: 130 pounds

Mission: Burn off 15 pounds of bodyfat

Plan: Clean Up Diet

Workout

Steps: Diet: 1. Cut calories to 1400/day for three days in a row, then have one high calorie day at 2000 cal (to prevent my metabolism from slowing down), then back to the 1400 cal/day rotation.

Drink one gallon of water per day

Eat mostly natural unprocessed foods

Workout:

Lift weights 5 days a week

Do 30 minutes of cardio 6 days a week

Stretch

This is just an example of mapping out a plan. Of course, you will probably go into a whole lot more detail when constructing your plan. Be positive and specific. Now you have a plan.

With your new image and your solid plan, you now have the tools to master your mind. Try to focus on the image of the “new you” as much as you can in your mind. Every time you remember, picture yourself having already achieved the goals you have set for yourself. Don’t buy clothes at your current size. Act as if you were already the size and weight you desire.

When you are making food choices (like what to order at a restaurant) ask yourself, “What would the 115 pound fitness model order?”. Then do it. Model yourself after what you desire. Don’t listen to any negativity. People will constantly try to bring you down to their levels. Don’t fall for it. Focus on your goals all the time.

One of the greatest programs I’ve invested in is called “The Winner’s Image” by Bob Proctor. You can visit Bob’s website at www.BobProctor.com. This program teaches you to repair and design your self image from the ground up. It explains how you become what you think about. Everything is born in the mind first before it becomes a reality.

Another great book (one which I listen to often on DVD in my car) is “Psycho Cybernetics”, by Maxwell Maltz. This book explains how your conscious and sub-conscious minds work and how you can harness their power. Phenomenal information for the person who is serious about achieving their goals.