Change Starts With You

The Ultimate Fundraiser

By ​Josha Shivprashad 

As the weather gets colder and colder, we tend to get stuck into a routine or habit that keeps us at a comfortable state. We start to eat heartier foods to compensate for the chill and stay in bed longer to avoid the eeriness of the cold approaching us.  But this does not have to be the case. Just because it is fall and almost winter does not mean we have to pack on the pounds and stay in bed, lets get up and make things happen while we still have time. After all, there is no time like right NOW!

Make The Change

© Hines 4 Michigan

​In the past few years of my “adult” life I noticed that when the colder months come around, I fall into a habit of laziness. The gloomy chill makes me want to eat not so good things more often then I should. Staying in bed on my days off became longer because a peek through my bedroom window just reminded me of how yucky outside was. This year I made a change! 

I wanted to stop my old habits and make most of my time because I didn’t want to encounter the annual fall/winter slump. Setting goals with a clear-cut organized plan was my go-to. I decided that I was going to keep up with my diet and continue working out. I started doing what is known as a “Keto Diet”. In the beginning transition of my eating habits I did research. If you want to make a change and try something new, research, planning and organizing are key.  These vital steps lead to consistency where you are more likely to avoid having slips and ‘mess-ups”. 

Meal Prep

© Sloan Review

​As I began eating healthier my lifestyle also changed. I began to save money as I began meal prepping. Once you start doing a grocery haul once a week for healthier and better choices in food, you tend to spend less on actual food. This adjustment in purchasing food really helped me change my habits; as I was less likely to slip up because I did not have to worry about my next meal or snack. 

Because I did groceries and meal prepped my Keto food, whenever I was hungry, all I had to do was grab a dish I had already made rather than stopping in at a McDonald’s. But hey, there is nothing wrong with a cheat meal here or there, if you know what I mean. As long as its not excessive and hindering your goals to a better lifestyle. 

Energy Boost and Everything In Between

© Toledo Blade

​With the plan in motion of eating better I noticed my energy levels began to spike, and with that came internal motivation. Once you start feeling better and have energy, you are motivated to do more. Use this energy and motivation to better yourself and change your daily routine. Whether it is your career, your studies or your health. 

With this newfound energy I gained, I applied it to working out. I signed up for kick boxing classes. I started waking up earlier and going to kick boxing. Not only do you feel good after a workout but you also see positive changes in your physique. These changes go hand in hand with your motivation level because as you begin to look and feel good, you want to continue this process. All in all, it is in fact a win-win situation. 

More Positivity

© Amazonaws

As I changed in bettering myself, I wanted to keep that positive vibe going in all aspects of my life. Changing one part of yourself encourages you to change all aspects of your life positively. This domino effect enabled me to work towards career goals as well. I applied for more jobs, found new opportunities in hobbies and recreational activities that I wanted to pursue.  Use this newfound change and apply it to everything.

Balance Is Key 

© 7 Geese

I am no motivational speaker or influencer but I am proof that a small change with proper planning, organization and an end goal, do in fact work. Once you are consistent and determined, the world is yours to conquer. I mean, hey I do enjoy a night of pizza and binge watching my favourite Netflix series here and there. 

​Balance is very important in not only staying on track with the changes you want to implement but also your own sanity. Take baby steps and you’ll see that everyday becomes a new a goal accomplished, then a week, a month and eventually a whole lifetime. As cliché as this is going to sound, be the change you want to see in yourself!