It is not easy to admit we all have our Frankenstein moments; those times when we wish we could custom make our own bodies to look, feel, and even perform by design. Even in an age where cosmetic surgery comes the closest in making this a reality, many struggle with going under the knife for elective reasoning.  But if it were possible to actually build a better body the right way, overtime, and in the best and healthiest way, would you? Consider this, FITLIFER….it is more attainable than you think! Let’s start with you, right where you are. Not when you finally get that extra couple of pounds off, not when you finally get organized, get that promotion, or finish that home project.  There is never a good time to get started, but it is always the right time to BUILD. A great way to start any challenge is to answer questions pertaining to your challenge. For physical change, these questions may help…

1. Can I wake up or stay up an extra hour a day for the next 4 weeks for physical activity?
2. Will I give up one extra hour or two on the weekend to plan and put my meals together?
3. Can I commit to sharing my journey weekly with someone who can hold me accountable or whom I can hold accountable?
4. Lastly, can I mentally buy in to this process for the next 30 days?

Once you are able to answer questions like these with a yes, you are more than ready to get started.

So let us tackle the first challenge, devoting that extra hour a day for fitness. This looks different for everybody, as many of us struggle with exercise, so let’s break this down practically.  If your thing is walking, than walk. If it’s running or hitting a group fitness class, then go for it! I have heard the gamment of excuses…”it’s too cold, I don’t live near a gym, yada, yada, yada!”  The reason the first challenge is a physical one is because you really don’t have to think, just get moving! Develop the mindset that I have to do something today that can potentially elevate my heart rate.  Second, stop wishing you had more time to meal plan, and just plan. There are tons of great meal ideas on Pinterest, which is my go-to! Take an hour to get some containers out, get 3 meal ideas together along with their ingredients, and get started!  Third, share with someone. And I do not mean your dog…. even though Fluffy is an awesome listener, you need someone who can challenge you to KEEP GOING! Lastly, Commit. Give yourself an achievable goal, and shoot for it. Try not to give yourself too many outs in the first 30 days…. like I’m too tired to work out, or this isn’t my day.  Minimize the excuses to maximize the successes. Feel free to use that as your mantra this month.

So this is your first challenge for building a better body (Part 1).  See you in 30 days and all the best to you!