EGO Driven

By Ramese Long

As I told you from day one, this was going to be a journey and connection between you and me. If you recall, I told you we would be taking “baby steps” to a healthier lifestyle.

Start your engine…

We all know exercise is probably one of the most difficult aspects of life to tackle. Believe me, I get it. Look at all the issues we all have to deal with. Money, work, mortgage/rent, car payments, insurance, bills, debts, relationships, your pains, your regrets, your accomplishments, your failures and don’t forget you haven‘t eaten yet. Then add … “my back hurts,” “I’m sleepy,” “I‘m too old to do that,” “I just to do … well, I don’t know what I want to do but I know I don’t want to do this” to your life portfolio.

Stay with me…

We need to get to the knitty gritty of this health thing. Now, we all know that it’s pretty much a pain to workout. As a personal trainer of 22 years, I agree with you wondering why it can’t be easy. Listen, I used to be 60-70 lbs. heavier than I am today as I sit and write this piece. I too have moments when I wish it was easy. Believe me, there is a part of me that wants a bacon double cheeseburger (ketchup only), cheeseburger (ketchup only), super size fries, dessert and a fruit punch to be packed with all of our daily vitamins, minerals, proteins, omega 3s and everything else to do a body good. Unfortunately, it doesn’t.

Make a U-Turn…

I know you’ve heard of countless weight loss success stories and failures. Have you noticed the common denominator with the numerous people who struggle with exercise versus the people who have made the change? A series of choices, usually (not always) driven by their ego. Your ego will lead you to do one of two things: to do something or do nothing.

Typically, we think of our ego as a negative aspect of our personality, however, if used within the fitness realm it can do wonders for you. If you revisit some of the success stories, I guarantee more times than not, you will find an ego-driven motivation for those who have lost weight or made the choice to get healthier. When you use your ego to create a healthier process, you begin to delve into an area which is the most difficult to overcome…your negative subconscious thoughts.

What were some of my thoughts when I was heavier? Anything negative with several toppings of excuses. Stop yours too and make a different decision.

You will continue to hear me say the same thing over and over as I attempt to get you moving. Again, I truly understand how arduous exercise can be. I gave you a glimpse of my previous appetite earlier, so believe me … I do get it! What motivated me to finally come to my decisio? Very simple, I had some friends of mine ask me for advice. I gave them said advice. They did it and got results. I wasn’t going to give them advice and watch them get in shape.

Using your ego can be a delicate thing to maneuver. It can be your friend but also your worst enemy so be aware (not overly critical) of what you are thinking, saying and feeling. Keep it simple: If it doesn’t feel good and it’s getting you further from your goal, don’t do it. If what you’re doing is getting you closer to your goal, then continue to do it … then change and modify consistently. Do not over complicate this. All you have to do is make a different decision each day and finally Do someTHIN!