Be About Actions, Not Distractions

It's funny how time gets away from me, before I know it a week has passed by, I have been overwhelmed with things going on. I feel like I have been doing catch up for quite some time. You all know I love working from home and how grateful I am to have that blessing, I thought I would have all this extra time to do those things I never seemed to have time to do... but I think until I actually make a plan or a commitment to myself, nothing will change. No amount of extra time will inspire me to follow a plan because the truth is that the lack of time wasn't stopping me from working on myself. Although I said that and felt that, I believe it was an excuse. 

I know from past experience that I will never be successful with anything until I am all in, not just dipping my toe into the water. The excuses I have had for myself for well over a year are just that excuses... the question is what do I really want? If I don't commit fully, do I want to change? I am beginning to think what I am saying has been lip service, even to myself. It's funny how we think by declaring something that we will follow through. Thinking doesn't change anything, actions do... talk will never help me to attain any of the goals I say I want, actions are the only thing that will do that. 
I talked to my friend last night about joining up with the Canada Games Centre, we both want to work on ourselves and I feel that if we do it together it will help immensely... I know that it won't keep me on track as I am the only one who can do that for me... however; I think the buddy system helps to start me on the right path, what I do there when I get there is up to me... I have tried a little and I do mean a little yoga but I feel so uncoordinated with no balance. I didn't commit to it, yet I am fully aware that whenever you start anything it takes time to get to where you desire. 
 
Then I read a blog this morning My New Happy which reminded me that I can't do everything all at once, I can't be my best the first time I try something and I can't give up because of it... the first day I decided walking was what I would do to get healthy and exercise, I walked one mile, it took me close to 23 minutes to walk it... it was tough, I had to stop and rest twice, I was red, out of breath. I wondered how anyone could walk a mile in under 15 minutes. The next day I walked another mile, I built on it slowly, before I knew it I was walking 3 miles a day. It took me nearly 6 months but I got my mile under 15 minutes.  
I didn't give up because it was hard, I committed to putting the time in because I made it important to me. So, as difficult as yoga seems to be, I am going to commit to 10 minutes starting tomorrow. Before I know it I will be able to hold a pose or balance for 10 to 30 seconds... along with this my sister has advised me of two very simple exercises where I can strengthen my back muscles, just because I am 53 I don't want to give up on myself and think this is it... plenty of older people live healthy lives with very little pain. 
 
I'm sure the excuses will come, they came with walking and I didn't give up because it was important to me... I want this to become essential to me too. I have given up on myself many times, I keep fighting back and I became stronger each time.... It's about time for me to commit to myself again and not give up so easily. I have set the alarm clock to get up 20 minutes earlier, eventually, I want to make it an hour... I loved my mornings in the past, it was me time where I could relax and get things done... it's quiet in the mornings, fewer distractions. I need to be about actions, not distractions!
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71 comments :

  1. A high school teacher said something to me that really made sense back then...and still makes sense now. "Anything worth doing is worth doing well." Yes, we may fall or stumble, but as long as we keep going, step by step, moment by moment and day by day, whether it is by ourselves or with someone else, we will achieve our goals. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, dear Launna, and I wish you all the best in your endeavours. I am rooting for you! :)

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  2. Launna, thank you so much for mentioning my blog. I'm so glad that you found some value in my post. I know exactly what you mean - I thought with the boys grown up and out I would have so much more time, but I keep making excuses. Please do try the yoga - I know it will really help you. I was hopeless at first, but after a few months of persisting I'm so much better now. Hope you have a wonderful week!

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  3. Dear Launna, I admire you. Step by step, you will achieve all your goals.

    Jasmine xx

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  4. Hi sweetheart!
    This post is very wise. I want my sister to read this to make her remember that only doing what we want will help us to change our situation.
    Beutiful words as always.
    Kisses
    Maggie Dallospedale
    Indiansavage.com

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  5. Dear Launna,
    Let me tell you that 53 is not old, when I think my patients are old it's because they are over 80 but my god only 53, you will be slowly doing more exercise and get better and better with time! Keep motivated because you won't give up, You still have a lot to do, to learn and to live! ❤️
    Kisses
    Nuria
    www.travelera.es

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  6. Yoga is sooooo good...and it is all about being where you are. My yoga teacher says 90% of yoga is about waste elimination. And it is also completely about self-acceptance. I don't think you should approach the balancing poses with the goal to hold them for a certain length of time...rather, start slowly and listen to your body. Be where you are with it instead of sticking to a pre-set goal. Every day is different. Yoga is cumulative.

    People make time for the things they really want to do. I can't tell you how many people I have encountered who insist they can't do this or that, even though they really want to, because there is no time. Usually at that point I ask how much tv they are watching, and it's a lot...lol... my painting requires time. I'm very dedicated to it aside from working and parenting alone...and Launna, even though I CAN fairly easily make time to paint, that's not my problem...it is STILL hard for me to get my rear over to the easel. Even when I want to. It is a mental thing. Self-resistance. Every single artist I know goes through it, but I think it also applies in other areas as well. I don't know what causes it, probably many reasons.

    Anyhow, you're doing great. xoxo

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  7. A great post, Launna. I need to get back into some regular exercise, too. I have always wanted to try Yoga but have been chicken to try it. lol I took a year off while John was going through his treatments and I still haven't jumped back on the bandwagon of taking good care of myself.

    I popped over and signed up to follow Lana's blog, too. xo Diana

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  8. You have to take things in baby steps. It's a journey. As long as you keep moving, you'll get there.

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  9. such a beautiful piece dear.You are so encouranging .So happy that you are keeping fit

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  10. I am glad you know what you want and are making a plan to start to get there. Sometimes our steps are small, but they move us in the right direction.

    I hope your week is going well and that the extra time in the morning is working out. Best of luck!
    ~Jess

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  11. Hi there Launna, is great to see a new post, its always exciting to get here and see a new title.
    Unfortunatelly, I got back the kg I lost. Now that uni is back I am thinking even more about postpone my exercises plan, I know I shouldnt, but the daily up and down the stairs is already making my legs hurt and its been only 2 days! I think "if I've been exercising it wouldnt hurt as much", but when I should been studying how can I worry so much about my body? I feel like I shouldnt focus on my body when it would be such a hard studying year, so I'm losing focus and feeling down. My start plan wasnt extra exercising anyway, so I think maybe just add stretching would be the best for the first month, but seeing everyone in such a good shape in my class makes me feel really bad and out of place. I miss the time when I just had to study, my anxiety is building up with all the "I need to work extra hard on this, but on that too". What should I choose? I dont want to be just lip service, but I dont to put too much pressure on myself and end up giving up everything like in the past year. I'm paralised by the fear. If you were in my place, what would you do?
    Hoping you are having a better a time... Have a great week! Xoxo
    http://www.thesecretshoot.com/

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  12. Like anything worthwhile, it will take time and lots of patience to get to be where you want to be. I need to focus more on actions instead of distractions too. Knowing that you did it before does help, though, because it can motivate you to do it again. Hope you have a wonderful week! :)

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  13. Baby steps. We all start there. With focus, information, and practice we improve.
    R

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  14. just what i need = focus hahah thanks for the visit Launna =) keep in touch http://www.nanajover.com/

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  15. You give some positive motivating messages, which I really appreciate. I need to start walking more and have been putting it off, too. The best thing is to do little baby steps, so with me, it was walking a little and going down steps. Then I started parking much further from my destination, which at first I really hated. lol) A writer friend posted a challenge for squats, which seemed fun because so many other people seemed to be on board. I agree that having a supportive buddy is awesome. Kudos on your progress! Hugs...RO

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  16. Have a nice wednesday sweet Launna.
    kisses
    Maggie Dallospedale
    Indiansavage.com

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  17. It isn't important if your steps are small... but, it's very important if they drive us in the right direction!!!
    So keep on moving Launna!
    Kisses, Paola.
    Expressyourself

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  18. Great Words Launna! The Quotes are so much Inspiration for me <3

    Thank you, kisses

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  19. You know Launna? Maybe you didn't noticed it, bur to me you seems much more motivated lately!
    Not that you wasn't before, but now looks like you intend much more to "make it real", with no more excuses!
    Well, it's normal that at the start you feel uncoordinatd and unbalanced making yogs or any other work out, but you'll see in no time great improvements (this is for sure, I made ballet and agonistic sports since I was very little), just have a little patience and don't give up! :)
    More, along with the strenght of your body you'll gain more and more mind strenght and self confidence!
    So, keep on going like this, sweetie! :D
    xxx
    S
    http://s-fashion-avenue.blogspot.it

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  20. Lau querida postagem muito boa nunca saia do seu foco que é a sua FÉ,
    Obrigado pela visita.
    Blog: https://arrasandonobatomvermelho.blogspot.com.br
    Canal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmO8csZDARM

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  21. Aquele hidratante labial é muito bom, né?! Tenho vontade de experimentar todos os aromas disponíveis! ;)

    Launna! Se você acha que está arrumando desculpas pra si mesma chegou a hora de começar a observar suas ações e se controlar pra não colocar pedras (que não existem) no caminho. Tenho certeza de que com a ajuda desse amigo as coisas vão ficar mais fáceis!

    Ótima quarta!

    Beijo! ^^

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  22. I actually got on the elliptical this morning for a few minutes. HUGE accomplishment for me. =)

    I'm right with you. When I commit to something, I go full storm--which is why I have to be careful about my commitments. I don't understand how some people can verbally commit, but it's all talk. We're supposed to be doers, eh?

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  23. We're more than conquerors, beautiful lady. Keep on keeping on and I know you will get there eventually. I've been getting there bit by bit with guidance from above. As always I wish you all the best. :)

    http://missymayification.blogspot.co.uk

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  24. Everyday, I feel like I hit the ground running. I remember a time, at work when it was OK..get a cup of coffee, look at your e-mail..not these days. Its so GO GO GO..and it seems there are always more steps to do in the different process of achieving..getting the item out on the floor for the patron to checkout. Unfortunately, I find out a year or so later, the book or the DVD hardly checked out and I'm killing the record. Yes, time is of the essence. And as a co-worker told me this week, we study ourselves daily, trying to figure out what works and what doesn't with our body.

    Hopefully, you are staying well. Here, most everyone I work with is sick. All the best to stay strong.

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  25. "Actions, not distractions!" I love it. That's a motto we should all take to heart.

    I love the early morning hours, too. For me, it's the best time of day to write.

    I'm glad to hear you and a friend are going to be working together, because the buddy system really does work. You'll encourage each other, and together, you will succeed.

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  26. Actions, not distractions... that is so catchy, I need to keep that one in mind! Also, hey, the last couple of times I have tried to check in on your website, it has given me a website down page.. just a heads up! I had to refresh a bunch of times to get the page to finally load... - http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com

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  27. I think we live in a day and age where people are very quick to give up. And where people THINK they can't do something while they really totally can. I think it's important to continuously push yourself and be tough on yourself. No one else can do it except for you.

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  28. Dear Launna, I'm also for all or nothing. Now you make me want to time my walking. I better have walked a mile under 15minutes lol. You did it before so I have no doubt that you can commit again, one day at a time for we really and truly can't do it all at once. You're lucky to have a friend willing to do it with you. That must be nice. Enjoy your mornings :).

    http://www.fashionablyidu.com/

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  29. You definitely can't to everything at once and it's about stepping stones and baby steps to your goals. Joining the Canada Games Center sounds fun though, very fun! You'll get there :) Excuses are always in my way too and it's easier to have them than take action :)

    Raindrops of Sapphire

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  30. Actions, no distractions- so true! We all need such small constant reminders to stay focused on our purpose. I wish you achieve all your goals and stay happy and active all the time.
    xo

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  31. Dia maravilhoso amei, obrigado pela visita.
    Blog:https://arrasandonobatomvermelho.blogspot.com.br/
    Canal:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmO8csZDARM

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  32. Dasha Boonstra commented: Great words Launna! Actions and no distractions; you are so right! Keep up moving Launna! :-) You're doing great.

    xoxo
    www.its-dash.com

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  33. I've never done/taken up Yoga, although many friends have and thoroughly enjoy it. I think the secret with any exercise is to start slowly and build up, and of course keep on doing it regularly ... sometimes this doesn't come easy.

    I think the Canada Games Center sounds a good idea.

    Action and not distraction are good words.

    Wishing you a good weekend to come

    All the best Jan

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  34. Launna! Eu uso perfumes até dentro da minha casa, porque sou viciada. Amo estar cheirosa! hehehe!

    Ótima sexta!

    Beijo! ^^

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  35. I feel you Launna. I, myself, kept on saying that I want to do this, I want to do that. But then I don't get to do everything because I lack commitment. I hope that you joining the Canada Games Centre with a buddy will help you get rid of those excuses. It's a start. :)

    Anyway, in reply to your comment on my blog: I'm so glad that I had a fresh new start after going through a quarter life crisis. It feels so great. New Year can be so wonderful! Even though we can change and hope for the best any time of the year, the new year just gives hope. And I'm glad I'm picking myself up now and I am finding myself. Thank you very much Launna! :">

    xoxo, rae
    http://www.raellarina.net

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  36. Dear Launna, I think you make a valid point about taking it all one step at a time. something you wrote struck me though, and that is " You have the power to say, this is not how my story will end. It's deep cos I realised that every time I wanted to do something, I always told myself, how I wanted my story to be written. I think if we all started with that thought, achieving and achievements become possible. Thanks for this beautiful inspiration

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  37. I do agree that we shouldn't trying too much at the time, nobody can do everything at once. Baby steps as they say...I liked your example with walking. Everything is difficult at first but if we keep on we find that it gets easier with time.

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  38. Hey Girl! Hope your weekend was fab! Hugs...

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  39. good tips to remember everyday. Life is short and we must make good decisions and actions as well
    kss a lot Launna
    =)
    New post in my Lifestyle Blog

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  40. It's so easy to make excuses and get distracted. I think that's why not everyone gets to achieve many things. Only a few does.

    Have a wonderful month, Launna!

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  41. If you want to achieve something, you have to commit to all the little steps it will take to get there.

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  42. I totally agree with you, Launna, I find myself between excuses and the will to act... And now Raffaele has got chickenpox and last night I slept 1 hour and then I went to the office...
    A big big hug!

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  43. Launna! Aquele vestido com estampa de cerejas fez sucesso! hehehe! ;D

    Ótima terça!

    Beijo! ^^

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  44. I love mornings too. I usually get up before anyone and I like the quiet and stillness to write etc. Joining the centre sounds like a wonderful idea. Stay true to you. :)

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  45. Small baby steps can have more lasting effects than doing too much at once. I am confident you will reach your goals Launna.
    Simera|Beautetude

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  46. Very true. We can set goals. We can even be dead serious about them. But nothing will happen unless we actively start doing things to achieve those goals.

    I think buddying up is a good idea. Just don't let yourself give up in the event that the buddy does.

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  47. Isn't it wonderful how we get revelations or reminders from reading something someone else wrote? And then me here reading yours and thinking about things I want to do (like blog). Ultimately it isn't lack of time keeping me from it and dipping my toe in the water here and there isn't going to work either. I'm just going to have to find that quiet time without distractions to get me started, get on a roll then I'll be able to write with noise ;-)

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  48. We always find many excuses why we aren´t able to do certain things! I totally understand that. It´s easy to blame others for things we are not able to do.
    You already proofed who strong you are. Imagine that you thought to walk a mile under 15 minutes is impossible. But you pushed yourself und proofed that you are even stronger than the 15 minutes.
    I totally agree that the Buddy Thing really can help and push yourself. I have a friend for each of my sport activities. It´s so much more fun when you can spend time with a friend. Sometimes you even forget that you are doing your exercise.
    I really think that YOGO is perfect to get in touch with your body. All of my friends told me that you will have a complete different body balance by doing all of these exercises.
    It seems that you wiped away your excuses by realizing what you have to change! Be strong and don´t forget what you fought against in the passed and you managed each challenge!!
    Luv you and send you 1000 hugs ❤

    xoxo Martin

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  49. Ótima postagem sucesso sempre no seu alvo, obrigado pela visita.
    Blog:https://arrasandonobatomvermelho.blogspot.com.br/
    Canal:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmO8csZDARM

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  50. Someone said a goal is a dream with a deadline.

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  51. Hi Launna, how has your week been? Mine has been awfully busy but I guess busy is good. Stay blessed!

    http://www.fashionablyidu.com/

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  52. I have put on a little weight and I was just committing to take it off and fell. Boy, oh boy, did I fall. Two weeks in and it's still swollen the size of a grapefruit, and bruised all the way down to the ankle. I tried to walk today and now the daggone thing hurts like the dickens. Guess I'm going to wait. I'd hate to do any damage, but I get what you're saying. It's action that makes us move forward not thought, even when it's coupled with desire. I know what I DON'T want, and that's to be unhealthy or heavy which will lead to health challenges I might not otherwise have, so I'll be getting those pounds off before they come habit. Sooner rather than later. :)

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  53. Dear Launna, it's Friday evening here, I'm so tired that I got fever. I hope you are well and have started to sleep a little longer.

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  54. I know exactly what you mean Launna! The first few steps are the hardest. Like you I have to get back into some kind of exercise routine. I will make it an effort to wake up earlier to do at least get some strength building exercise in. I walk everyday, but to get toned I need to do some weights. Thanks for the inspiration!

    xx,
    Tania
    http://inspiremyfancy.blogspot.com/

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  55. HI LAUNNA!!! Happy February!!! :) I have been blog absent again. hehe. I've been so busy trying to be an adult these days. I hope you are doing well. I agree with you about the being all in part - DEFINITELY being able to commit is a hard thing to do, especially with all the distractions of this world. But recently I keep reminding myself how my talents, which God gave me, are meant to be used and shared- so I just need to go forth. We all do! :)

    Big hug,
    christine
    www.beyoutifulhope.blogspot.com

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  56. I loved reading this post because I agree with everything you said! It's always hard to fight our excuses but oh so worth it :)

    Bella Pummarola

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  57. I need more action in my life! Well said, Launna!
    I hope you have an amazing month of February! I know you're waiting for the Spring already! ♥

    Happy New Week!
    xoxo Suzy ( ˘ ³˘)♥
    THE KAWAII PLANET

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  58. Que maximo sempre arrasando, tenha uma semana maravilhosa,
    obrigado pela visita.
    Blog:https://arrasandonobatomvermelho.blogspot.com.br/
    Canal:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmO8csZDARM

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  59. This post is so inspirational Launna and I'm definitely going to check out 'My New Happy' also. I know what you mean about needing to be all-in to full commit to something and working from home can be tough sometimes. I feel like it takes so much more commitment (and time management) skills compared to a job where you go to the office. Stay strong and keep pushing forward - the buddy system is a great idea too. Glad you mentioned it!

    xoDale

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  60. Just wanted to wish you a happy Thursday, Launna!

    Raindrops of Sapphire

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  61. I am not sure If I am going to be essential but I want try to enjoy my life.
    xx

    www.sakuranko.com

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  62. I love the mornings. I can do many things then.
    Yoga is something, what I want to try.

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  63. Thanks for sharing this honest and inspiring post. So true.

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  64. Hi Launna, I finally took some time to answer comments before sleep (I don't even know if I'll be able to answer any more today after this, but anyway)... I'm using less my bullet journal now because my routine seems to be the same thing everyday and I feel like I wont forget things even if I dont write (wich is actually a bit foolish of me because I just realised I did forget something today). I don't know, I'm starting to think writting everything gets me anxious if I'm not able to do all that is written, and still I miss having everything down. Did you try starting a bullet journal yet?
    Thank you so much for contacting me last week, talk with you always bring me joy (even when there isnt any good news, I feel cared for).
    xoxo and let's be happy this week too!
    http://www.thesecretshoot.com/

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  65. So good that you have a plan in place now! it can be hard to make he time to do things, especially when we think we are no good. But as you proved with the walking, practice makes perfect and you can do it!

    Hope you achieve all your goals this year and you have had a great weekend :)

    Away From The Blue Blog

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  66. Launna it's wonderful that you were able to commit to walking on a regular basis, until you reached a level of strength and stamina that you didn't think possible. This is a helpful metaphor when facing any challenge. With exercise (especially in winter), I find that half the battle is mental, and my own frame of mind can defeat me. A determined attitude definitely helps. It's fantastic that you're partnering up with a friend to make exercise a regular part of your routine. Research shows that this strategy is much more likely to result in success. Once you do a little more each day, you'll feel a sense of pride in yourself and want to keep going! I used to think I was useless at exercise and would do anything to get out of P.E lessons at school. But now I can't imagine my life without exercise. Good luck and I look forward to hearing about your progress!

    Lots of love Saba xx

    www.trulymadlydeeplyfashion.blogspot.com

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  67. Hi Launna, I've missed reading you so much.....
    I'm currently struggling with making so much excuses nd not really committing so I can totally relate. I trust that you will slowly come to a full commitment to whatever type of exercise you choose for yourself. Really want to say so much but don't have the words. Stay inspired. Much love, xx

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I love and appreciate all genuine comments, to save a little time, I won't be commenting on the comments on my blog (unless you don't have a blog), I will just visit your blog and comment there, if you have left a meaningful comment for me... I would much rather spend the time reading and commenting on a few extra blogs ❤