Reframing a ‘Sacrifice’ State of Mind

Sacrifice.

When many of us think about nutrition, this is what comes to mind.

Sacrificing or giving up things (foods/drinks) that taste so good and we love to eat.

Or, in terms of fitness, sacrificing time/energy for the workout. 

Sacrifice isn't exactly something we think positively of, and therefore it can be tough to stick to. 

So, maybe we need to reframe things a bit. 

Instead of being bogged down with what you might be sacrificing, flip the script and focus on the positive of what you will achieve from that sacrifice. 

Let me talk pizza for a moment. I love it. And yes, I do eat it (I am human you know). 

But if I want to stick to my goals and what's important to me physically/mentally, I can't have it all the time and some sacrifice is necessary. 

For example, when I'm at a restaurant with my kids, maybe a nice simple salad with some grilled chicken is in order for myself rather than the pepperoni. 

Not quite as exciting, no, but I try not to focus on what I'm giving up. Rather, what I am getting. I know I'll be more on track with my physical goals. I know I will probably feel WAY better after the meal is done and over. And I also know that whatever I chose to be in its place tasted pretty good too! 

So, maybe it's just a matter of playing a bit of a mental game with yourself. Focus not so much on 'sacrifice' or what you are giving up, but rather the positives of what you are getting out of it. 

Remember, GIVE YOUR BODY WHAT IT NEEDS, WHEN IT NEEDS IT. 

Jaime Rothermich, RD, CSSD, LD, PPSC, CSCS
Functional Elements Training & Nutrition