This November let’s all work to build HABITS that help us create the life we want. Do something EVERY DAY no matter how small, but do something!
Establishing Success-Oriented Daily Habits
Crafting a daily routine that embraces incremental progress, no matter how small, lays the foundation for fostering positive habits. For example, if your aspiration is to write a novel, dedicating yourself to composing just one paragraph each day can lead to significant progress over time. This consistent commitment to daily actions shifts your perspective from daunting long-term objectives to attainable, manageable tasks.
The Significance of Micro-Progress
Micro-progress, at the core of the ‘No Zero Days’ philosophy, ensures constant forward momentum. It mitigates burnout risk by breaking substantial tasks into manageable steps, particularly helpful for seemingly overwhelming projects. Remember, even the longest journey commences with a single step.
Sustaining Motivation and Preventing Burnout
Maintaining enthusiasm over time can be challenging, but ‘No Zero Days’ provides a solution to combat burnout. By celebrating daily achievements, no matter how small, you foster a sense of accomplishment, reigniting your motivation and keeping your journey exciting. Moreover, minor daily tasks are less likely to overwhelm you, ensuring continued engagement and enthusiasm.
LET’S GO NO ZERO FOR NOVEMBER
So what’s the deal, you’re asking?
For the month of November the challenge is to do “something” every day. Whether it’s Fitness (Health, Diet, Exercise, etc…) or Self-care (Learning, Meditating, Volunteering, etc…) related at least every day of the month. We’ve provided a nice PDF print-out tracker for you to track your progress of doing something every day.
The result is you have no-off days, no zero days! It’s how habits are BUILT!
How to participate:
Daily Action Log: Keep track of your small yet significant daily actions. Check a box once you’ve done one thing that fits into one or each of the categories: Fitness/Health, Self-Care/Learning, and Habits. They can all be the same or you can do just ONE thing!
Weekly Reflection: Reflect on your progress at the end of each week. Celebrate achievements and adjust your strategy for the upcoming week.
Habit Forming: Cultivate consistent habits by monitoring your daily efforts. Witness your incremental progress as it accumulates over time.
Motivation Boost: Use the provided space to jot down motivational quotes, reminders, or personal affirmations that keep you inspired and focused.
Coherence Enhancers: Implement transition words, as discussed in the article, to connect daily actions seamlessly, promoting a sense of purpose and continuity.
How to Use it:
Download: Get your copy of the “No Zero Days” Progress Tracker PDF by clicking the link below.
Print: Print the PDF to have a physical copy on hand, making it easy to fill out daily and reflect weekly.
It works for any given month you use it in: There are 31 day blocks, use it for whichever month you would like to start.
Download Your “No Zero Days” Progress Tracker Now: Download PDF
Embrace the power of “No Zero Days” with this user-friendly progress tracker. Watch as your consistent efforts pave the way for the realization of your dreams. Remember, each small action matters. Start tracking, start achieving.
Squatober is more than just a fitness challenge; it’s a celebration of strength, camaraderie, and personal growth. Join the global movement, bend those knees, and discover the incredible transformations that await. SQUATOBER isn’t just a challenge; it’s a life-changing experience. Will you rise to it?
What is SQUATOBER?
SQUATOBER is not your average fitness challenge; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. It’s a weekly programmed knee-bending regime that welcomes all who seek to test their limits and have a great time while doing it. We have participated in the worldwide phenomenon for the past 5+ years! We ain’t gonna stop now!
Here is the Warrior Fitness celebratory graphic for 2023.
The Challenge
Is it easy? Absolutely not. But is it doable? Absolutely! SQUATOBER challenges you just like life does, with its highs and lows. The beauty lies in the fact that you won’t face this month-long adventure alone. We’ll be doing it together, day-in and day-out right here at HQ.
Embrace the Journey
This isn’t just about squats; it’s about pushing your limits and discovering your inner strength. Embrace the journey and let it change you for the better. It’s not just a physical challenge; it’s a mental and emotional one too. Can you make it 3 days a week or maybe even *gasp* 5 days? Let’s goooooo!
Adhering to a Paleo diet while dining out can be a challenging endeavor. The lure of convenience often clashes with the strict guidelines of this ancestral eating plan, leaving many followers feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. However, armed with a few savvy strategies and a commitment to your health, you can confidently navigate restaurant menus and enjoy meals that align with your Paleo lifestyle. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the common hurdles faced when eating out on a Paleo diet and provide you with actionable solutions to conquer these obstacles. So, let’s dig in and discover how to stay true to your Paleo principles while savoring the joys of dining out.
The Paleo Diet: A Brief Overview
Before we embark on our journey through the obstacles and remedies associated with dining out on a Paleo diet, it’s essential to gain a clear understanding of what the Paleo diet encompasses. Often referred to as the caveman diet, the Paleo diet draws its inspiration from the eating patterns of our ancient ancestors. It’s a nutritional approach that harks back to the Paleolithic era, a time when our forebears relied on the bounties of nature to sustain themselves.
Central to the Paleo philosophy is the consumption of whole, unprocessed foods that mirror the dietary choices available to our hunter-gatherer predecessors. Imagine a time when humans were intricately connected with the land, foraging for nourishment and hunting for sustenance. The Paleo diet seeks to capture this primal essence by promoting the consumption of foods that have undergone minimal processing or alteration.
Lean meats, such as grass-fed beef, poultry, and game meats, constitute a fundamental component of the Paleo diet. These sources of animal protein provide vital nutrients, including essential amino acids and heme iron. Additionally, fish, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, features prominently in the Paleo diet, reflecting the importance of aquatic resources in ancestral diets.
Vegetables and fruits, abundant in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, play a crucial role in the Paleo diet. These plant-based offerings celebrate the diverse array of plant life that was available to our ancestors, nourishing them with nature’s vibrant palette of flavors and nutrients.
Nuts and seeds, heralded for their healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients, are celebrated as valuable additions to the Paleo diet. In the Paleolithic landscape, these nutrient-dense morsels were gathered from the wild and consumed for their energy-boosting properties.
However, what sets the Paleo diet apart is not only the foods it emphasizes but also the foods it excludes. Dairy, for instance, finds itself on the list of exclusions due to the fact that dairy farming and animal domestication emerged after the Paleolithic era. Similarly, grains and legumes, staples of many modern diets, are absent from the Paleo framework, as they became prevalent only with the advent of agriculture.
Refined sugars, another modern-day indulgence, are conspicuously missing from the Paleo diet. The diet champions a return to the natural sweetness found in fruits and the occasional use of natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup.
In essence, the Paleo diet invites us to rekindle a primal connection with our ancestral dietary roots. It’s a culinary voyage that transports us back to a time when humans lived in harmony with the rhythms of nature, nourishing their bodies with unprocessed, nutrient-rich foods. As we navigate the challenges of dining out while adhering to the Paleo principles, this foundational understanding will serve as our compass, guiding us toward choices that honor both our health and heritage.
Challenges of Eating Out on a Paleo Diet
Limited Menu Options
One of the primary challenges when dining out on a Paleo diet is the limited menu options that align with your dietary preferences. Many restaurant menus are brimming with dishes containing grains, dairy, and processed ingredients, making it challenging to find Paleo-friendly choices.
Hidden Ingredients and Cross-Contamination
Even when you manage to identify a seemingly Paleo-friendly dish, there’s a risk of hidden ingredients and cross-contamination. Sauces, dressings, and cooking methods may incorporate non-Paleo ingredients, while shared cooking surfaces and utensils can lead to unintended exposure to grains and dairy.
Social Pressures and Peer Influence
Dining out often involves socializing and peer influence, which can be particularly challenging when following a specific diet. The desire to fit in or avoid drawing attention may tempt you to deviate from your Paleo principles.
Navigating the Paleo Maze: Solutions for Dining Out
Research and Choose Wisely
When confronted with a menu, take a proactive approach by researching the restaurant online beforehand. Many establishments now provide their menus and ingredient lists on their websites, allowing you to identify Paleo-friendly options in advance.
Customize Your Order
Don’t hesitate to customize your order to align with your Paleo preferences. Politely request modifications such as substituting grains for extra vegetables or asking for sauces and dressings on the side. Most restaurants are accommodating and willing to tailor dishes to your needs.
Communicate Clearly
To avoid hidden ingredients and cross-contamination, communicate your dietary requirements clearly to the waitstaff. Use simple language and emphasize the importance of your restrictions to ensure your meal is prepared without any unwanted additions.
Embrace Social Support
When dealing with social pressures, it’s essential to surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand and respect your dietary choices. Explaining your commitment to your health and well-being can help mitigate any potential peer influence.
Plan B: BYOM (Bring Your Own Meal)
For occasions when dining out seems too challenging, consider bringing your own Paleo-friendly meal. This strategy ensures you have complete control over the ingredients and can enjoy your gathering without compromising your dietary goals.
Mastering the Art of Paleo Dining Out
Eating out on a Paleo diet may present its share of challenges, but armed with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome them with confidence. By researching menus, customizing orders, communicating your needs, seeking social support, and having a backup plan, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy delicious meals that align with your Paleo principles.
Remember, the Paleo diet is not just a temporary fad; it’s a commitment to your health and well-being. As you navigate the culinary landscape, embrace the adventure of discovering new restaurants that cater to your dietary needs and savor the satisfaction of staying true to your Paleo journey.
So, the next time you embark on a dining-out experience, be it a casual lunch with friends or a celebratory dinner, approach the menu with a discerning eye and a determined spirit. With each choice you make, you’re reaffirming your dedication to a healthier, more vibrant you.
The challenges of eating out on a Paleo diet may seem daunting at first, but they are by no means insurmountable. Armed with knowledge, preparation, and a dash of creativity, you can savor the joys of dining out while remaining true to your Paleo principles. Now, go forth and conquer the culinary world, one Paleo-friendly meal at a time.
References
Cordain, L. (2019). Origins and evolution of the Western diet: health implications for the 21st century. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 81(2), 341-354.
Frassetto, L. A., Schloetter, M., Mietus-Synder, M., Morris, R. C., & Sebastian, A. (2009). Metabolic and physiologic improvements from consuming a paleolithic, hunter-gatherer type diet. European journal of clinical nutrition, 63(8), 947-955.
Are you tired of hitting the snooze button every morning? Do you struggle to get out of bed and start your day on time? You’re not alone. Many people find it difficult to wake up early and feel energized, especially if they are not getting enough sleep or have an inconsistent sleep schedule.
In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to end the snooze cycle and start your day on time. By following these simple steps, you can improve your sleep quality, boost your energy levels, and become more productive.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule The first step in ending the snooze cycle is to establish a consistent sleep schedule. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This will help regulate your body’s internal clock and make it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine Creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help you wind down and prepare for sleep. Some activities you can try include taking a warm bath, reading a book, practicing yoga or meditation, or listening to calming music.
Avoid Electronic Devices Before Bed Electronic devices emit blue light, which can interfere with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Avoid using electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops for at least an hour before bed. If you must use them, consider using blue light filters or wearing blue light blocking glasses.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt your sleep quality and make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Limit your intake of these substances, especially before bed. Instead, try drinking herbal tea or warm milk to promote relaxation.
Keep Your Bedroom Cool, Dark, and Quiet Creating a sleep-conducive environment can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains or an eye mask to block out light, and earplugs or a white noise machine to block out noise.
Use an Alarm Clock That Works for You Choose an alarm clock that suits your needs and preferences. Some people prefer traditional alarm clocks, while others prefer using their smartphones or smartwatches. Consider using an alarm clock that gradually increases in volume or uses light to wake you up naturally.
Get Out of Bed Immediately When your alarm goes off, get out of bed immediately. Resist the urge to hit the snooze button or lie in bed for a few more minutes. This will help you wake up faster and start your day on time.
Have a Morning Routine Having a morning routine can help you feel more organized and prepared for the day ahead. Some activities you can try include stretching, journaling, having a healthy breakfast, or doing some light exercise.
Be Patient and Persistent Ending the snooze cycle takes time and patience. It may take a few weeks or even months to establish a consistent sleep schedule and morning routine. Be persistent, and don’t give up if you slip up once in a while.
Ending the snooze cycle is possible with some simple lifestyle changes and habits. By establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding electronic devices before bed, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, using an alarm clock that works for you, getting out of bed immediately, having a morning routine, and being patient and persistent, you can start your day on time and feel more energized and productive.
I am a notorious late night snacker. I can do really great and stick to my plan all day but then late at night i’m starving (or at least I think I am.)
Here is some basic knowledge and some approaches that may work for you. As my friend Rob likes to say YMMV “Your mileage may vary”…
Eating enough?
First of all; you may not be eating enough throughout the day.
You’re eating clean. Light breakfast or smoothie or maybe nothing, salad and clean protein for lunch then more protein and veggies at dinner. Super clean and low in carbs and fats! But hey, you’re actually only eating like 1,200 calories… That’s really not enough, especially if you exercise regularly.
Let’s look at a healthy level of caloric intake for a 35 year old Female who weighs around 185 lbs and is 5’ 8” who works out 1-3 times per week. She should be eating 2,400 to 2,100 calories per day. You can use a calorie intake calculator online to get a quick look at where you should be personally. I recommend getting a decent body scan as well like an InBody scan or professional skinfold measurement by a doctor or fitness professional.
The reason for this is that if you are not eating enough calories to maintain your lifestyle you will wind up feeling hungry all the time. Which will most likely result in binge eating and/or snacking when it’s available.
Food Quality Matters
While a calorie is a unit of measure for the energy found in food. Not all calories are the same IMHO. A calorie of sugar is not made up of the same stuff as a calorie of vegetables or steak. So if you are consuming what I could call “junk” calories they will not go as far as more nutritionally dense calories. So don’t just add more calories to your daily diet, add more high quality foods as well.
Max Lugavere & Late Night Snacking
Health and science journalist, New York Times bestselling author and podcaster Max Lugavere (https://www.instagram.com/maxlugavere/) cited a recent study “which involved 16 overweight men AND women (!), skipping breakfast and eating a late night snack after dinner (~9pm), compared to eating breakfast an hour after waking and an early dinner (between 5 and 6pm) and fasting afterwards, led to higher levels of grehlin (hunger hormone), lower levels of leptin (metabolic regulator), higher subjective hunger, and a lower metabolic rate the next day.”
What we conclusions we can draw from the study is that we have a natural day/night rhythm and when we put food into our system “after hours” we can short circuit that and the resulting hunger the next morning and early afternoon can be significant enough to make us break our plans.
Fix your environment
Something else i’ve discovered about myself is that I am an opportunistic snacker. If it’s there and I can find it, I may just eat it. I have good discipline in many aspects of my life except for snacking in general. One way I combat this is by simply NOT having things to snack on in my environment. I mean, I do my own shopping so why do I even get the snacks in the first place. There’s lots of reasons I can cook up for having the snacks but they are not really true… So, don’t buy them, or throw it out. That way when the snack demon hits you, you can go looking, but they won’t be there.
