It’s the end of January. That’s the time in the weight loss industry when most have already started abandoning their fitness goals. More specifically, January 17th is the day most people give up on their goals according to Strava data. If you have done so, you’re normal.
Why are we so predictable? Why is it that despite our best intentions every year to finally lose weight, we lose steam?
In my opinion, it comes down to one word– WILLPOWER!
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that it’s because you don’t have enough willpower that you’re not successful. I’m actually saying the opposite. It’s because we give willpower too much credit. We believe that if only we were tougher mentally, if only we worked harder, or if only we were more disciplined THEN we would be more successful. That is absolutely false. We’re simply not strong enough mentally to overcome the power of our mind.
We’re not capable of not doing the things we don’t want to do. Remember Paul’s lament:
“19 For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me.” Romans 7:19-20
Can you relate? Try resisting your favorite food that’s put in front of you!
So, if willpower is not the solution, what is?
Instead of getting frustrated and throwing in the towel because you’ve abandoned your goals, or maybe feeling disappointed because you’re starting to lose steam, remember this:
You’re normal.
Losing steam when you’re trying to motivate yourself is normal. Accept that it’s part of the normal process. Prepare yourself spiritually, physically and mentally to properly equip yourself for the journey at hand. Don’t expect it to be smooth sailing. There will be setbacks, bumps and hiccups that you will experience on the journey. Recognize them, give them over to God and ask Him to strengthen you on the journey.
It’s necessary for your growth and maturity.
When you’ve reached the end of your will-power, there you will find God, waiting to help you and encourage you. We have an uncanny desire to always want to be in control even though God has sent us a helper. “I will send you the Helper[a] from the Father. The Helper is the Spirit of truth[b] who comes from the Father.” John 15:26 It takes maturity to ask for help and accept that we can’t overcome strongholds in our own strength.
Also recognize that it’s the trials and setbacks that teach you and prepare you. See every setback as a set-up for a comeback! James teaches us:
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-3
If you’re getting frustrated, or maybe you’ve quit altogether, be encouraged. You are absolutely normal. Consider it a blessing that you don’t have the willpower and start relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to help you. So put your sneakers back on and keep on going this time. Prepare yourself for the journey at hand. This time, don’t be surprised by the lack of willpower, discouragement and sometimes frustration that comes. Just remember that it’s part of the process and turn it over to God. When you’re feeling weak, that’s when He will do His best work in you.
Share how you’re doing on your journey so far! We would love to hear from you.
If you are ready for the next step, take our popular 21-Day Challenge to go a little deeper in these issues and get you started in the right direction. We have Live coaching calls with myself and other mentors that will encourage you on your journey.
For Your Success,
