There is nothing I read more about than mindset and habits. And though there are hundreds of thousands of different strategies out there, the majority of what I read share one basic guideline — a single question to ask yourself in order to ensure lasting success.
That question is: “Can I keep doing ______ forever?”
That blank will look different for every single one of us. Perhaps you’re asking, “Can I eat this way forever?” or “Can I workout this way forever?” For me, as I work on changing my habits and lifestyle, I’m continually asking, “Can I maintain this habit forever?”
If my answer is no, then I cannot expect a lasting result. There are plenty of quick fixes out there — fad diets, magic pills, pyramid schemes — but the likelihood of sustaining with these faster results is close to zero. You know deep down that results take dedication and hard work. Remember that cliche, “It didn’t take a week to put the weight on, so it won’t take a week to take it off.” There is so much truth in those words!
Lasting results come from time. I know, I know, that isn’t what you want to hear. (Me either.) But, if you start slow in order to master your mindset, then you are going to see those results being sustained long term. And that’s what we’re working for, right? Put in the work, put in the time, and enjoy your successful habits for the rest of your life — a healthier, happier, and longer life.
