Are you navigating the uncomfortable space between wanting and having? Try this

Ever felt that tug-of-war between wanting a healthier, more active lifestyle and actually having it?

It's like standing at the threshold of a gym, staring at all those machines, and feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Sound familiar?

We recently dove into this topic in my previous post and the responses poured in.

Turns out, we're not alone in navigating this tricky space.

It's this zone filled with hurdles that make taking that first step toward physical activity feel like an uphill battle.

Consider these three examples of what might show up….

​The Grip of Fear: Stepping Into the Unknown

​Picture this – you finally muster the courage to walk into a gym, only to be hit by a wave of fear. The equipment looks like a maze, and self-doubt creeps in. "Am I doing it right? Will I embarrass myself?" It's that fear of the unknown that keeps us stuck in the comfort of wanting, far from the reality of having an active lifestyle.
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The Inner Dialogue of Unworthiness: Confronting Health Challenges

​Meet Sarah. She's dealing with type 2 diabetes, and there's this heavy feeling of unworthiness that hangs over her. Thoughts like "I caused this myself, so I don't deserve to be healthy" become a daily struggle. It's a mental barrier that convinces her she's not worthy of the benefits that come with being physically active.

The Lingering Past: Overcoming Childhood Trauma

Now, let me tell you about Tom. As an overweight kid, he was the slowest in completing laps around the school playground. The punishment? A bunch of push-ups and extra laps. Fast forward to adulthood, and that childhood trauma still lingers, making the idea of being physically active more of a challenge than a joy.

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These are just a few examples of what might emerge in that space between wanting and having. So, what resonates with you? What shows up on your radar in this dance between desire and attainment?
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​So, how do we break free from this space? Enter self-compassion – our secret weapon.

It's like giving yourself a warm, supportive pep talk as you navigate through the gym or face health challenges. Remember, you're not alone in this journey.

Self-Kindness: Treat yourself like you would a friend figuring out the gym. The fear and uncertainty? Totally normal.

Common Humanity: Sarah's not the only one facing health challenges, and Tom's not the only one with a past to overcome. We're all in this together.

Mindfulness: Be present in the moment. Listen to your inner dialogue without harsh judgment. It's shaped by experiences, but it doesn't have to define you.

To bridge the gap between wanting and having, let's acknowledge these barriers together. Recognize the fear, self-doubt, the impact of the past or something else that is personal to you. It's time to make peace with the discomfort and grow from it.

Our journey from wanting to having involves rewriting our stories, facing fears, and letting go of past traumas. It's about creating a safe, judgment-free space—one where physical activity is a celebration of what our bodies can achieve.

So, as we navigate this space, remember it's okay to feel uncomfortable. That discomfort is where the magic happens. Let's tackle our fears, reshape our self-perception, and embrace the joy of having the active, vibrant life we truly desire.

Need some help with this?

Send me a message and let's have a conversation. I am here to support you in your physical activity journey.

Because it is never too late.

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa