The “All or Nothing” Mindset Trap

blog post

Sep 24

You might’ve heard about the “all or nothing” mindset before. It’s in fact deeply rooted in the perfectionist trap that lurks in the back of our minds.

Guilty.

It goes something like this…

No time for my full workout ? Ugh.. just skip it.

Ate more dessert than I planned? Screw it, I’ll just start again tomorrow cuz today’s a write off.

The list can go on to include just about anything and I must admit I’ve fallen victim to this trap many times.

Thing is though, consistency will always trump extreme intensity.

And we all know, perfection does not exist.

And yet, there is a sweet spot that lies somewhere in between. The spectrum is wide and nuanced with multiple shades of grey, each one uniquely defined by you…. and me.

As a coach myself, I’m currently finding it a challenge to squeeze in my workouts. I know it sounds like a no-brainer, but even trainers can struggle with maintaining their own fitness regime. So instead of skipping my workouts altogether, I remind myself (as I do my clients) there is no perfection here. A short sesh here, a walk outdoors there, a few rounds of a kettlebell swing or wtv else I can muster…. these are not perfect but instead lie in the “sweet spot of something”.

Each one counts. Each one adds up.

And, yes, results unfold over time.

Sure there may be weeks or maybe even months where all runs smoothly, perfect workouts, nutrition on point, sleep A+ and stress is manageable and actually stimulating.

That can and does exist. But for how long?

In the long-term, you’ll more likely find obstacles in your way, things that beckon your attention and times when it’s simply too hard juggle it all without something or someone (you) caving in.

That’s where the “sweet spot of something” beats the perfection podium we create in our heads.

I’m by no means advocating mediocrity, laziness or sub-par performance. I hold a high standard for myself and my clients who say they’re committed to improving their lifestyle, body composition or performance goals.

But sometimes we ALL need a nudge that reminds us that it’s ok to have an “ok” workout and that sometimes, good enough is good enough.

What does that even look like in real life?

Instead of skipping a workout altogether because time slipped by, try squeezing in even just 5 or 10min of exercise. It may not seem like much but those small deposits made over time most definitely add up.
Your WOW video library aims to help you do just that… when time is tight and you want to stay committed to your fitness goals, choose one or 2 quickies and you’re DONE ;)
Is it perfect? No.
Does it fall in the “sweet spot of something”. Yes and yes.
And you’ll be reminded that a little bit goes a long way in your long-term fitness lifestyle.
Instead of beating yourself up for not eating what you planned on, make a better choice in your next food decision. Here’s the thing… you will be making hundreds of food decisions every single day. Why let one “less than perfect” choice ripple into all other food choices you’ll be making in the hours ahead?
You’ve heard of the flat tire analogy I’m sure… if you have one flat tire, no worries, just get it fixed. That’s it. Don’t freak out and then slash the other three! And yet that’s exactly how some of us react.
Maybe that means just adding some extra veggies to your next meal, having a glass of water, or grabbing a protein bar instead of skipping a meal altogether or reaching for a donut. The choices need not be perfect. They just need to be 1% better.

No one likes the “middle man”

The middle ground is a place many don’t like. It’s treading into an “in between” zone where you make up the rules pretty much as you go.

Sounds so random. So whimsical. So flaky.

Typically we’d prefer clear cut rules with sharp edges to help us “stay on track” and “eat on plan”.

We’d rather avoid the nuances of health and fitness. Our fear of failure keeps us tip-toeing around the middle and seeking comfort in the “all-or-nothing” mindset.

Yet those clear lines often keep us from progressing, growing and becoming more empowered with our own choices. Whatever they might be on that gray spectrum of success.

Here’s a challenge for you… how can you find your “sweet spot of something” this week?

Where can your “less than perfect” choices bring you that much closer to your goals?