“Traits don’t change, states of mind do”
I read this in my book today and it really makes sense, especially when applied to health/fitness…naturally I felt like sharing this with all of you in the blogging world.
I’ve always been very passionate about health, which I would consider one of my personal traits, but my state of mind has definitely changed (and continues to change) over time. Sometimes something as little as eating poorly for a few days or skipping the gym can mess with my head and my state of mind. Even though I know (on an intellectual level) that it is impossible for such temporary actions to have any serious or lasting effects, I still can’t help but get annoyed with myself. All that ends up doing is frustrating me, making me judge myself and analyze myself WAY more harshly than normal. The irony in that, is that an overly-critical state of mind is about as unhealthy as it gets, when all along I was just trying to be healthy.
How could my state of mind change in such a short amount of time? And yet, my desire to be fit and in shape is still the constant underlying trait that drives me to feel that way. I realize these are completely contradictory sentiments. Some days I look in the mirror and I’m thrilled, and other days I think blah – and since these can be consecutive days, obviously nothing has really changed aside from my own state of mind!?
Fortunately, I have all of your amazing blogs out there to remind me that I’m not alone in this. Also, I have learned that ignoring the negative thoughts is the most helpful and productive way of getting back to a positive state of mind.
Here’s a quote I love.
“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some absurdities have crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with…high a spirit.”
And if that didn’t make you smile, have you seen this commercial? It’s hilarious! They shot it in the train station in London, and the general public had no idea what was going on.
Wonderful quote!!
What a great post!! So true, and you are defintiely not alone in this … I think and go through the exact same things, for sure!
p.s. Very beautiful picture and great smile!! : )
great post- agree 100%. That’s one of my favourite quotes (and that video is hilarious- thanks for posting it!)
Love this post! This can be totally true for me! I always beat myself up when I have to skip the gym or eat bad even though I know it will not have a permanent effect on me.
Great post!!! Love it!
SO insightful Elise! are you high right now?? HA i kid i kid…i really like that second quote- i need that on my mirror 😀
Loved that commercial – I’ve watched it twice now. What a wonderful post – thanks for the reminder that tomorrow is always a new day!
Such a true statement! Sometimes I’m like “work it, you look good today.” Other days it’s like “what planet did you come from?” Horrible mindset, but it’s true. But with commercials like that – why focus on the negatives that bring you down? That thing was hysterical.
Great post! I totally agree with and support what you are saying…and that’s so funny, my mom sent me a card in the mail on Monday with that EXACT quote..Emerson is certainly a smart guy!
Aw Elise, you are gorgeous and this is a beautiful post! I adore that quote!! I always say that tomorrow’s a new day, you get a fresh start 🙂
Ahhh what a fun commercial! Makes me want to shake my groove thaaaang 😉
your coffee is so pretty. never had cafe viva, but thanks for the recommendation