the whole nut

make it personal

February 2nd, 2010

I had dinner with a friend the other night who was at the edge of her seat with excitement, dying to tell me her good news. You see, she told me how she recently made some commitments that were an investment in her health and well being–and she was feeling better than ever. What a concept! Isn’t it funny to think how little we are willing to spend when it comes to our own “investments?” I’m not talking about that new purse you’ve been eying, but investments that really help you to feel your best.

The following morning I had my own “personal investments” to tend to: an acupuncture appointment, and a mission to pick up some new running shoes. The acupuncture helps loosen some of the tension working out and running brings on my body (among other things), and the running shoes to help me kick it up a notch on the treadmill each morning. It feels good when you master the treadmill, right? You feel better about yourself, don’t you? So which purchase will likely help you feel better in the end: the new purse? Or the new running shoes? You see where I’m going with this. (And not to say that feeling good physically and mentally will solve all your problems- it’s just a variable)

What else? Well, last spring I hit a wall with my uninspired workout routine and needed a change, pronto. Something drastic. But nothing that required too much commitment (because that sounded too expensive…and stuff). But then, after months and months of mulling over the idea (or maybe even years), I finally decided to do it: I got a personal trainer. I decided I was worth it and that if I was going to be serious about my health, I couldn’t continue making excuses!

I’m not encouraging you to drop $500 at the spa this week (unless that’s your thing). I’m encouraging you to think of a few things that would help you feel like a more confident, better YOU. Regardless of cost. Think long-lasting benefits. Whether it’s a commitment to buying better quality food, joining an art class, or picking up a new workout outfit (honestly, those work wonders)–find something and make it work for you. No excuses. You may think it’s impossible, but if you want something bad enough, you’ll find a way to make it happen. (true story)

Those dinners out with friends? The ones where the bill somehow seems to triple itself? (shouldn’t have gotten that second bottle of wine…) Take that and replace it with something that’s going to give you more bang for your buck, and leave you glowing instead of groaning. I promise you: if you start putting a little more into your “you” investments (even when it feels like a stretch), you’re going to start to feel you’re worth it! Which is silly, because you already are.

We already know it’s not the purchase that helps you feel better about yourself–it’s what the purchase can do for you. That’s why it’s an investment! The actual pair of new running shoes didn’t make me a happier, more confident person. Why would they? (although, I do like how they match my new pink shuffle) But I know this new pair is going to help me improve my workout on the treadmill–and when I have a good workout, I feel GREAT (a stellar return on investment).

my new running shoes also got me to the gym in the chilly NYC weather this weekend!

Over sushi the other night my friend couldn’t help but go on about how great and how confident she felt. Why? Because she decided it was time to get serious and make an investment in herself. And it showed. And once you get that momentum rolling, who knows what you’re capable of!

What’s holding you back to becoming a better, more confident you? What investments are you ready to make toward your own health and happiness?

Filed under: Food for Thought

Tags: acupuncture, commitment, happiness, health, investment, make it personal, personal investments, running shoes, well-being, wellness