Welcome back Dear Readers,
Hiring a life coach is one of the best things I’ve ever done. Since I started working with Ashley, I’ve returned to kickboxing, I started working in earnest on my book, I’m finally making time for marketing, and my desk is (mostly) clean. I still have a long way to go, but I’m making more progress than I have in a long time.
Part of my last homework assignment was to answer three questions. I found my answers to be surprising and very illuminating. I think you might benefit from them as well.
- What could you start doing right now that, if done consistently, would make the biggest positive difference in your life?
- What could you STOP doing right now that, if done consistently, would make the biggest positive difference in your life?
- What could you do right at this moment that would make you the most proud?
Try it. Your answers may surprise you.
I thought my answer to the first question would have something to do with writing, but thanks to the life coach I’m already writing. When I really thought about it, the answer was exercise. Exercise has the potential to have the biggest long-term positive impact on my life. That doesn’t mean it should take over my life completely again, but it is super important. If I’m sick or dead because I didn’t take the time to move my body, I won’t be writing either. (Interestingly, when I asked this question of a friend who is ten years older, her answer was exactly the same.)
My answer to the second was easy–procrastinating. No surprises there. Procrastination is easily the bane of my existence. I would truly be a force to be reckoned with if all my time was spent productively.
The third question turned out to be a great procrastination-buster. If you find yourself momentarily at loose ends and ask yourself that question, you’ll probably immediately know how you should spend your time. For me, it’s a matter of sticking to the schedule I’ve set for myself. When I’m finding it difficult to avoid Facebook or other distractions, I ask myself that question. And then I get back to work.
Let me know if this works for you as well. I’d love to know your answers, but you don’t have to share if you’re not comfortable. Getting some benefit out of the exercise is the most important.
Thanks for reading!
Ha…I answered the first two questions before I continued reading and they are exactly the same as yours Holli!…
(I do exercise – run/walk/cycle – but I think I could be more consistent with my workouts)
Hmmm enlightening…;0)
Great post Holli! I found this interesting on many levels. Of course, the questions are very illuminating indeed, but I’ve recently taken an interest in studying to become a life coach. To see the tangible differences that it’s making in your life is very encouraging. Well done and thank you for the inspiration!
Thanks for your comments, ladies! It’s much appreciated.
Lisa: I’m surprised you would say exercising, because it seems you’re always exercising. I would like to be more like you in that way. But I’m so happy you found this enlightening.
Laurel: There are many life coaches out there (it seems to have become the trendy new career), some helpful and some not so much. I am very grateful that I hired such a wonderful coach, but I definitely did my homework on her before I spent any money.
Good luck with your goals! I’m sure whatever you decide to do will work out fabulously.
Exercise is right up there for me too. Unfortunately, it’s complicated with a kid. Not that much of an excuse, but still. I’m looking forward to school starting the fall, that’s for sure.
Can you exercise with your daughter? I’ve read lots of blogs, articles etc. saying that’s one of the ways moms can squeeze in more activity. But I know it’s tough. It’s tough for me and I don’t have kids!
Writing isn’t an active pursuit. We have to force ourselves to step away from the computer. 🙂
Thanks for your comment, Michelle. What kind of exercise do you like to do?
She’s just in an in between stage. Too big for a stroller, too small and not enough stamina to go on a long walk that will do me any good, and not old enough to leave alone at home or at the park while I work out.
I like to do yoga, but I can’t do it if the kiddo is awake. It’s too distracting, and when she’s asleep or gone, I usually write because that’s the only time I get. Fall will be nice when she’s in school all day. I can fit both in. 🙂
And no, she won’t do yoga with me. Tried that, didn’t work. 🙂
Cycling? I have biking on the brain lately, so that was the first thing that popped into my head.
But it does sound like the fall will be a lot easier for you. I’d love to get more into yoga too.
Yeah, just no money to buy a bike right now, or a bike machine, or anywhere to put it. 🙂
Aw, well I don’t know how to ride a bike yet (hoping to learn this summer), so I feel for you! I’ve got a crappy garage sale one waiting in my garage. 🙂