Wednesday, March 13, 2013

I Want It Now!

"I want it, and I want it now."

As adults, we bristle at the thought that anyone except a toddler would think that way. Why? Because we've learned important life lessons like "good things come to those who wait" and "patience is a virtue."

Or have we really learned these lessons?

Consider the typical response when someone is presented a delicious dessert or steaming plate of fried goodness? "I want it, and I want it now." Instead of considering calories, nutritional value, or even hunger, the typical person will dig in and consume the offering, and then say something like, "I shouldn't have eaten all of that."

When given the after-dinner choice of being a couch potato or taking a brisk walk, the more common winner is the couch. People justify the decision with a tough day at the office, running around after kids all day, and lots of homework to do.

But what do you really want? More energy! Sense of accomplishment! Clear thinking! Stronger friendships! Toned body!

This, my friend, is the secret to successfully navigating the battle of immediate gratification versus true satisfaction: know what you REALLY want and do what it takes to get there. Branda Polk wrote: "Wellness is one wise choice at a time." Daily we make choices related to nutrition and exercise that either take us closer to our physical wellness goals or drive us further away.

What do you really want ... not just today but for the long haul? Choose accordingly.

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