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Small steps to big Change
Published
7 years agoon
Posted By
Outlaw PartnersBy Jackie Rainford Corcoran
EBS Health Columnist
With age often comes increased responsibility. Even in healthy communities like Gallatin Valley, many of us struggle to make time for self care. As we juggle careers and relationships, daily routines can feel overwhelming. Eating well and exercising regularly might seem like niceties for people without a care in the world.
But as we repeatedly put self care off, the scale starts creeping up, inflammation flares, energy flattens and stress mounts. So what do we do? Often, we resort to good old wishful thinking—hoping that big changes will happen on Jan. 1, or on our next decade birthday, or Monday.
While we all know that Monday always comes, we’re also painfully aware that lasting changes to habits rarely do.
On Aug. 21, 2017, I was pumped up to watch the total solar eclipse in Rigby, Idaho. I didn’t understand the magnitude of the visual splendor that was about to unfold, but I was excited about the big change that astrologers reported would come with it. I hoped that the closer I was, the greater my chances of basking in these effects.
I was ready for magical transformation with my wish list of new habits mentally rehearsed.
As I witnessed the blue bird day turn to night in minutes, I was reminded of how quickly time is passing, and then the reality sank in that there was no big magic change on the horizon.
Sure, the potential for change might be strengthened by this cosmic phenomenon, or the momentum that the New Year brings, or the inspiration of celebrating a new decade of life, but the only thing that makes lasting change is action. Not wishful thinking. Not reading a book. Not watching a video.
Lasting change starts with self-reflection. We can prompt this by answering questions like these: Why is this change important now? What are my roadblocks? What have I already tried? Why has or hasn’t it worked? How do I lie to myself around this habit—what excuses do I make to condone it? Where am I successful in life? Can I apply the strategies I use to be successful in one area to another where I’m trying to make change?
Second, create a simple plan. Start with the end in mind and work backward. Consider making small action steps and having an accountability partner. As you map out a plan, keep in mind the changes that come with each month and season. If you find yourself falling back on the same strategies you’ve tried in the past but haven’t been successful at, seek new ways to reach your goal.
Third, execute your plan. Action is key. Have a weekly check-in day. If you fall off the wagon, ask yourself why and course correct from there. Don’t give up. Revisit why this is important at this time. If you find that it’s not really that important after all, great, let it go and move on. No need to keep traveling down that road. If you feel terrible about giving up on the goal, reexamine your why—perhaps it needs strengthening.
And finally, find joy in the process. The emotional part of the brain, the pleasure seeker, needs to be fulfilled as well. Treat it like a puppy in training. We know they need discipline to be safe and have a stress-free life but we also know they need to play and express their unbridled joy.
Jackie Rainford Corcoran is an IIN Certified Holistic Health Coach, culture consultant and public speaker. For a complimentary health consultation, reach her at rainfordcorcoran@gmail.com.
The Outlaw Partners is a creative marketing, media and events company based in Big Sky, Montana.
Upcoming Events
october, 2024
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Sports
Event Details
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by
Event Details
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by GAS for ride information.
Time
July 29 (Monday) 6:00 pm - October 7 (Monday) 6:00 pm
Event Details
Hike Big Sky is a FREE guided hike for our community and visitors alike. A different trail will be featured each Monday at 9 a.m. Visit BSCO.org for trail description
Event Details
Hike Big Sky is a FREE guided hike for our community and visitors alike. A different trail will be featured each Monday at 9 a.m. Visit BSCO.org for trail description information. Please wear layers, bring water and snacks. Bear spray recommended.
Time
August 5 (Monday) 9:00 am - October 7 (Monday) 12:00 pm
Event Details
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by
Event Details
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by GAS for ride information.
Time
August 5 (Monday) 6:00 pm - October 14 (Monday) 6:00 pm
Event Details
Join Santosha, BASE and Gourmet Gals to bring you a donation based all levels community yoga lunch break class every Wednesday throughout the summer. It will be
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Event Details
Join Santosha, BASE and Gourmet Gals to bring you a donation based all levels community yoga lunch break class every Wednesday throughout the summer. It will be taught by a variety of teachers from Santosha and BASE. This summer all proceeds will go to Big Sky Band-Aid, aside from the first one on the 26th that is happening during Pride week- all funds donated for that class will go to Big Sky OUT. A delicious lunch will also be served by Gourmet Gals following our practice each Wednesday (included in donation). You are welcome to donate with cash at the event or you can Venmo @Santoshabigsky and make a note for Community Yoga. Hope to see you in the Park!
Time
August 7 (Wednesday) 12:00 pm - October 7 (Monday) 1:00 pm
Location
Len Hill Park