Recently, I’ve been thinking a lot about follow-through and just how hard it can be. For some people, it comes naturally—they make a plan, stick to it, and move on. For others (raising my hand here), it’s a constant battle. Lately, I’ve had to face some harsh truths about how often I say I’m going to do something and then... don’t. It’s easy to make promises to myself, but following through? That’s where I fall short.
I’ll declare, “No more social media! No more Netflix!” only to find myself scrolling or binging a series within days. Or I’ll excitedly say, “I’m going to that farmers market this weekend!” but when the time comes, I’m too tired to leave the house. Later, I’ll sit there, frustrated with myself, complaining about how I never do anything exciting. Sound familiar?
Here’s the thing—it’s easy to blame circumstances, lack of time, or even other people, but when I took a hard look in the mirror, I realized something uncomfortable: my life, my experiences, my level of happiness—they’re all shaped by my own choices. That’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s also empowering. Because if I’ve made decisions that led to a life I’m not thrilled with, I can start making decisions that lead to a life I love.
So, I’m making a change. I’m treating my mind like it’s heading to the gym for a serious workout. Just like you build physical strength, you can build mental strength. It takes effort, consistency, and a willingness to push through the excuses.
Here’s my plan:
Stop Overthinking. Instead of debating whether to go to that market or attend that concert, I’m committing to just go. The more I think about it, the easier it becomes to talk myself out of it.
Mark the Calendar. If it’s scheduled, it’s happening. I’m dedicating time to finding local events and penciling them in so I can look forward to them.
Limit the Distractions. Social media and TV have their place, but I’m setting boundaries. For example, no scrolling past 9 p.m. and no mindless streaming when there’s something fun I could be doing.
Just Get to the Car. They say the hardest part is just getting in your car and driving. So that’s my plan—whether it’s the gym, a farmers market, or a concert, I’ll focus on getting the motivation to just get to the car. Once I’m in, I’ll remind myself that all I have to do is drive. And once I’m there, it’ll be easier to think, “Well, I’m here…might as well go in and work out,” or, “Might as well go check out those veggies!”
Shut Down That Little Voice. You know the one—the annoying little voice that says, “You don’t look good enough to leave the house,” or, “What you’re wearing isn’t cute enough.” Ugh, that voice is the worst. So, when it shows up, I’m learning to clap back with a solid, “Nope, not today, Satan.”
Then, I hit it with some cold, hard truths:
Has anyone ever seen me in public, gasped in horror, dropped their groceries, and run screaming into the sunset because of how I looked? (Let’s be real—nope, that’s never happened.)
When I’m older, am I really going to think, “Wow, I’m so glad I stayed home and missed that concert, farmers market, or dinner with friends because I didn’t think I looked good enough”? Not a chance.
Here’s the deal: time doesn’t rewind, and missed moments don’t come with a refund. So, when that voice tries to talk you out of living life, shut it down, grab a hairbrush, throw on something comfy-cute (even if it’s just leggings and a hoodie), straighten your crown (because yes, it’s there), and head out the door.
You’re not going to remember the days you stayed home scrolling—you’re going to remember the moments you lived. So go live them. And if the voice tries to pipe up again, just tell it, “Shh, I’ve got veggies to buy and memories to make.” 🥕✨
Celebrate Small Wins. Following through doesn’t have to mean huge plans—it can be as simple as finally organizing that drawer I’ve been avoiding. Each little success builds momentum for bigger ones.
Life is full of opportunities to make choices that lead to the kind of days, weeks, and years we dream about. Yes, some days will still be lazy ones, but I want the scales to tip more toward adventure, connection, and fulfillment.
If you’re struggling with follow-through too, let’s do this together. Start small, stay consistent, and remind yourself that every choice matters. Let’s create lives that feel as good as we want them to look. You deserve to enjoy your life.
What’s one thing you’ve been putting off that you’ll commit to today? Let me know—I’d love to cheer you on!
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