He identified what he really wanted and ordered his life around that.

From "The Art of Non-Conformity"...

..."Murakami focused on what he would gain instead of what he would lose.  He identified what he really wanted and ordered his life around that."

..."it's all about embracing life to the fullest and ordering your life around a few key priorities.  To make that happen, you'll need to look carefully at all of your current obligations to determine which ones are actually necessary and which can be eliminated."

5 Tips to Add to Your "Stop Doing List" for Fat Loss Success

You may believe that searching for the next workout program or the next diet will bring you the answer to your weight problems.  

I'm going to suggest that you try something different.

Rather than filling your life with more options and more stress, let's have a look at what you can "stop doing". 

1.  Stop Searching for the "Right" Diet.

 Try one method of eating and stick to it for at least 2 months. Take some before and after measurements and pictures...and if possible have your blood work and blood pressure taken.  Give your 100% effort to the program.  Take notes, see how you feel.  Do you have more energy? Are you sleeping better?  Are you stronger during your training sessions.  Stop searching the "fitness" magazines, the supposed "celebrity" diets, etc..  Stick to one plan.

2.  Stop Sitting on Your Butt, and Get Moving.

This means setting strict times for using the computer, watching TV, and anything else that keeps your butt stationary.  I challenge you to time yourself for the activities in which you are seated.  You might be shocked to see how much time you spend sitting down.

3.  Stop Eating Crappy Food.

It's hard enough for you to burn off the healthy food that you already eat, not to mention if you consume junk food.  I know that when you and I were kids, we could "play it off". I can remember eating Ding Dongs, yes Ding Dongs, as a kid, and I would have no problem burning them off, because I played outside all day.  My guess is that you aren't playing too much these day, so save the junk for one very special meal per week.

4.  Stop the Self Sabotage.

You have been given an incredible gift, and your time is finite.  Get the crap out of your head that you can't do it.  I've personally seen so many people from all types of backgrounds, problems, family history, and so on who've gotten control of the their minds and succeeded in losing a lot of fat.  Family, friends, and mankind need you to perform at your best.  High energy and optimal health are right here waiting for you.

5.  Stop Procrastinating and Start Doing

Your body responds to activity plain and simple.  Move and get some results.  Move faster, lift some weight, in a sensible manner and see even better results.  Don't over think this. Get moving right now.  Stand up from your desk and do 15 squats, or 20 push ups on the wall.  When you get home tonight grab your significant other and your dog and go for a walk.  Toss a Frisbee, whatever it is, get moving.  Do not repeat your pattern of driving home passing though the fast food drive through and plopping on the couch at home, only to watch America's Got Talent.  Do some physical activity today.  Break the habit.

With the stresses of working a lot, emails, family, and more, I encourage you to use this list or create your own.  Cut out 5 activities that are pulling you away from your goals...then add 1 good activity or habit that brings you closer to your goal.

Let me know in the comment section what things you have stopped doing.  I'm curious to hear your suggestions.

Related Book  The Way We're Working Isn't Working, by Tony Schwartz

 

What are your priorities?

How did you start your day?

Did you get enough sleep last night?

Do you have healthy food choices on hand, or if you'll be eating out, do you know where you can eat healthy meals?

Will you be working out today?  If so, what type of workout do you have planned?

Do you have time for some stretching, meditation, or other bodywork of some type?

What's for dinner?

Do you have a time in the evening when you disconnect from the online world?

Is your bedroom peaceful and conducive for sleep?

...What are your priorities, and how are you working towards them? 

Some of What I Do in My "Off" Time

Stephen Cooper with Todd Durkin Mastermind Group, San DiegoI've been into fitness and training probably since I was about 12.  It's just something that I love and am really fascinated with.

I tend to spend a lot of my "off" time reading, learning, and listening to what is the latest news in the health and fitness industry.

One of the biggest joys since I became a trainer has been being part of an incredible mastermind group led by two time IDEA personal trainer of the year winner, Todd Durkin.  I can't explain how incredible it is to have a team of like minded individuals backing me up and having their support.

I've included some pictures of our recent get together and a video clip.