Why Going At Your Own Pace Pays Off

Like most things in life these days, we are almost instantly used to getting what we want. While this is great when it comes to things like grocery deliveries and ordering clothes online, it’s not so great when it comes to the important things in life – our children’s milestones, losing unwanted weight, needed repairs around our homes, you get the idea. There is a certain calm that comes when you surrender to your own pace. And, ultimately, it pays off in some significant and essential ways. Let’s take a look at some reasons that slow and steady actually wins the race. 

It’s Healthier

Let’s start with the proverbial elephant in the room – self-expectations. We’re all guilty of placing way too many expectations on ourselves on top of taking care of everyone and everything around us. The reality is, not only is this not feasible, it’s unhealthy for us: stress, the silent killer. Stress is a catalyst for a host of things that can go wrong with our mental, physical and emotional health. So, when we accept the fact that our pace of doing things (say cleaning the house, exercising, teaching our kids life lessons) is individual and unique to each of us, the pressure just falls away. Don’t worry about what your friends are doing or what their social media makes it seem like they’re doing. Guard your health and go at your own pace. 

We See More and Lasting Results 

Say one of the things on your significant to-do list is to lose some of the weight that is lingering postpartum. First of all, just know, you’re not alone; for most women, it will take a couple of years to get back to their pre-baby bodies. But, despite what social media and celebrities and that “one mom” you know may lead you to believe, it’s not always healthy to shed that weight instantaneously. Instead, try finding ways to get some movement at home between other things. Read The Mirror reviews to find home equipment, scour Youtube for free exercise tutorials. The important thing is finding a type of physical exercise that you actually enjoy so you’ll stick with it and keep it up – all at your own pace. Not only will you see the results eventually, if it’s a habit you love, but the results will also be lasting. 

It Builds Confidence 

Going at your own pace and accepting it is a potent reminder that you are in charge of your own life. Comparison is the thief of joy, don’t give into it. When you disregard what others may think or are doing, you gain that sense of self-confidence that we all know is priceless. Add to that, when parents are confident, it’s contagious, and your children will emulate your confidence. Who doesn’t want their child to be a happy, secure, and self-assured individual? So, go after the life and goals you want and be comfortable in the knowledge that you’re capable of getting where you need to be right on your own schedule.

The Gift Of Time 

Sometimes when we overcommit to too many things, school bake sales, working from home and raising a family, cleaning, whatever it is, we all know what happens – we burn out. Usually, we burn out quickly and in a blaze of glory. And where do we end up? Defeated and not likely to return to goals on which we were working. When you go at your own pace, you still have your life. You can not only commit to things that help your family, but you can also commit to more time spent with your family. One of the best things about surrendering and believing in yourself is that you can still have a life while simultaneously making things happen! Do you want your kids to remember you constantly in your workout clothes and on the scale, or do you want them to remember you teaching them how to bake cookies and playing video games with them? The answer is a given – surrender. 

So, as you can see, it’s plain and straightforward – slow and steady does win the race. And, since you’re guarding your physical and emotional health, you’ll come out the winner on every level. The most important thing you can do while taking care of others is to take care of yourself. Now get out there and seize the day (slowly)!