The Right Mindset for Fitness and Nutrition

Why do I constantly talk about “mindset” when discussing fitness and nutrition goals with clients?

Because, based on my experience, it’s the most important determinant of success, and it’s often the most overlooked element of any program.

Look at elite athletes. It’s often not the most physically gifted person who achieves extraordinary results. It’s often the most resilient person. The person with the most mental toughness. 

Sure, they have natural talent. But in almost every case they have an indomitable will, too. And that is what truly sets them apart from their physically talented peers.

In life, we regularly see examples of people achieving amazing things through the power of self-belief. So ignoring mindset as it relates to nutrition and fitness endeavors is a missed opportunity. In fact, it could be the very thing that is holding you back.

Here are three mindset shifts that can shape how you tackle your next meal or your next workout.

Identity

Who you think you are and what you believe about yourself are elements of a powerful story. So make it good. 

“I am someone who wakes up every morning at 6 a.m. to ensure I am not rushing, and I give myself time to make breakfast and do a quick workout before I head to work."

The opposite: “I don’t know how people get up at that ungodly hour, and I just cannot eat first thing. I have no time to train.” 

Those statements represent two vastly different people. 

So you ask yourself, “Who do I want to be?” 

This is just one example, but if you tell yourself “I could never…” enough times, then guess what? You likely “will never.” 

But if you change that narrative to “I’d like to try,” things can change quickly.

Effort Over Perfection

Not trying something new or different because everything needs to be “perfectly executed” should be called out for what it is: a terrible excuse. 

You can desire to do something well, but needing it to be perfect right off the bat is just a barrier to doing it. And most people quit over this perfectionism. 

Aim for consistently trying to be better and improving. If you find yourself saying, “Oh well, I screwed it up, so I am quitting,” or, “I’m not going to try because I have to go all in or it’s nothing,” take ownership of that excuse and give yourself permission to change. 

You can become someone who values an honest effort over someone who worships occasional excellence when it comes to nutrition and fitness.

The Wrong Yard Stick

If chasing perfection is the No. 1 reason why people quit, comparison is a close second. 

Unreasonable expectations rob you of potential. This is true whether you are comparing where you are to where you want to be or—worse—your accomplishments to those of some random stranger. 

Comparison steals the joy from the process, and it doesn’t allow you to just enjoy the small wins you’re accumulating on the way to your goal. It can even ultimately stop you from celebrating a successful final outcome. 

Don’t use other people's yard sticks to measure your progress!

Build Momentum!

When you approach your fitness and nutrition goals with the right mindset, it can change everything. 

Work on one shift at a time. As you notice the impact, reflect on it and then try for the next one. 

Building resilience doesn’t happen overnight, so be patient and keep trying!