Doing What Is Doable

As I reflect on my personal growth over the past few years, I can't help but feel immense gratitude for all of the positive changes in my personal life, including my physical health. It all began when I made a conscious DECISION TO CHANGE certain habits and behaviors.

The journey towards self-improvement and self-care has had a profound impact on my life and my family's Life. Not only have I worked on my mental well-being, forgiveness and healing, but I have also continued to make small changes every day, gradually transforming into a person I am proud to be. This blog is dedicated to the concept of "doing what is doable," a valuable lesson I learned recently from one of my daughters.

Looking back about 11 years ago, I remember being so unhappy with my appearance. I came across a picture of myself and was taken back at a wedding by what I saw. I was very unhappy with the way I looked. My clothes were very tight and, more than that, I was unhappy with how I felt. I was tired. That moment sparked an idea in my mind—I wanted to do something different. I no longer wanted my clothes to be uncomfortably tight, my belly sticking out, or my pants unable to buckle above my waist. The first step towards change was TO MAKE A DECISION and to start going to the gym to do some cardio.

Doing what was doable for me at that time meant simply putting on my workout clothes right away when I came home from work. I knew that once I had my workout clothes on, it was only a matter of time before I would make it to the gym. To solidify my commitment, I reached out to my sister-in-law, who is a personal trainer, and my brother, asking them to be my partners in believing. They would occasionally check in on my progress, providing support and encouragement.

At the gym, I focused on what was doable for me. I didn't overwhelm myself with complicated workout routines or strict diets. I’m Mexican. I love my tortillas. I love my mole. I love my Mexican food. I didn't want to give up my favorite foods. Instead, I set a realistic goal of going to the gym two to three times a week at the beginning and spending at least half an hour on the elliptical machine. It was a simple routine—I came home from work, changed into my workout clothes, had lunch, took care of my family, and then headed to the gym.

By breaking down my journey into manageable steps, I didn't feel overwhelmed. I didn't set a specific deadline to lose weight or put unnecessary pressure on myself. I focused on just one day at a time and trusted the process. My sister-in-law, a professional figure competitor and personal trainer, advised me not to weigh myself but to let my clothes and the compliments of others serve as signs of progress.

Sure enough, within four months, my jeans became loose, and I realized that my commitment to doing what was doable had given me results. I continued the same routine—going to work, changing into workout clothes, spending time with my family, and making it to the gym. The journey wasn't always easy, but it became a part of my routine. I fell in love with working out, feeling better about myself, and appreciating the positive changes in my body and how I felt about myself.

This concept of doing what is doable extends beyond fitness. It can be applied to your self-care, relationships, goals, dreams and personal transformation in lots of ways. For example, you can start your day by pausing for a moment and expressing gratitude for the things you’re thankful for. If prayer resonates with you, take a few moments to connect with your faith. Meditating or journaling, mindfulness exercises like walking, or reaching out to loved ones are all acts of self-care that can become part of your positive habits or routine.

Remember, self-improvement doesn't have to be all-or-nothing. Start with what is doable for you. If you feel overwhelmed by the idea of changing your eating habits, consider cooking a delicious and nutritious meal once in a while and gradually increasing the frequency. If you find it challenging to incorporate a full workout routine into your schedule, start with short bursts of physical activity throughout the day, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a brisk walk during your lunch break.

In addition to physical well-being, mental and emotional well-being are equally important. Taking care of your mental health can be as simple as setting aside a few minutes each day for deep breathing or mindfulness exercises. If you enjoy reading, try to incorporate it into your routine by dedicating some time before bed to read a good book. These small acts of self-care can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.

Another aspect of doing what is doable is setting realistic goals for yourself. Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones. Celebrate each accomplishment along the way, no matter how small it may seem. By doing so, you build momentum and confidence in your ability to make positive changes. It's important to remember that transformation takes time. Be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process. There may be setbacks or days when you feel unmotivated, but don't let that discourage you. Embrace those moments as opportunities for growth and learning. Reflect on what you've accomplished so far and remind yourself of why you started this journey in the first place.

Surround yourself with a support system that uplifts and encourages you. Share your goals and progress with loved ones who will cheer you on and hold you accountable. Having a sense of community and connection can make the journey more enjoyable and rewarding.

As I conclude this blog, I want to emphasize the power of doing what is doable. It's about taking small steps towards self-improvement, making sustainable changes, and being consistent in your efforts. Remember that each day is a new opportunity to do something that brings you closer to your goals. So, ask yourself: What is doable for you today? Whether it's going for a walk, practicing gratitude, or pursuing a hobby you love, take that step. Embrace the journey, and over time, you'll witness the remarkable transformation that comes from doing what is doable.