By far the most common question I’m asked is, “How do you manage to stay so lean???”. To which I have a very simple answer.
There’s a chance you’re one of the many who assume I’ve always been lean. I hate to disappoint, but that was simply not the case. It has never been. In fact, I’ve lived about 80% of my life if not more with no noticeable abs whatsoever. ZERO.
So to answer your question, I’d like to reiterate that the answer is very simple. Maybe even disappointing. Nevertheless, it is the truth. But before I get into that, I ask you to look within and ask yourself the following, “Do the actions I take in my life support the claims I make to myself about what I want?” . If you’re unsure of what I mean by that, I’ll tell you this. The things you currently possess in your life – whether it be your financial situation, physique, relationship etc. Are all a direct result of the actions you’ve taken in the physical world up to this point. For example, 2 years ago when I entered rehab – that was a direct result of the addictions that had manifested due to my state of mind. Had I chosen to better myself sooner – the addictions would not have manifested in the same way, and I do not enter rehab. That is NOT me saying I regret my past or anything of the sort. It is simply laying out the facts of how I got to where I was. Keep in mind, anything you are born into/is out of your control obviously does not apply here. What I’m referring to are things that are a direct result of you holding yourself accountable – or not.
I manage to stay lean because I adhere to a system of discipline and self love that I do not stray away from for ANYONE. The act of doing such a thing (protecting your peace so to speak) is just another way to say you’ve established boundaries. Now, by this point you’re probably wondering what any of this has to do with staying lean. And that my friend, is exactly why it’s there. Everything I’ve mentioned up to this point is MORE important to staying lean than the actual process itself – because like I said, it’s simple! HOWEVER, if my mind is not in the right place, I will not have the mental fortitude to instill such discipline in my life, and neither will you. If that sounds like a daunting task, fear not. For that discipline you develop will happen over time, as you continue to improve as an individual. As you see that discipline start to change your life – you will only want to lean into it more. As I did, and still do. The same way you would when you start seeing gains in the gym – or if you’re making more money at your job.
TO THE NITTY GRITTY! DRUM ROLL PLEAAAAASEEEEE!!!!!!!
I stay lean, because I spent the time to change my relationship with food. I now look at food as a source of energy, instead of time to spend leisurely. I’ve maintained that point of view for a long time. Along with working out consistently – and getting my steps. When you put the work in – it truly is as simple as that. Whenever you commit yourself to a goal – it is only a matter of time until you achieve it so long as you stay the course. “Hold the line”, so to speak. Don’t over complicate things. It’s simple math at the end of the day. Calories in, calories out. Don’t get caught up in how many carbs you’re eating, nor how much fat. That’s not as important until you get pretty lean. Focus on eating whole foods. You will be more satiated and feel better overall. It only takes a week of weighing your food to develop an understanding of how much is on the plate in front of you, without needing a scale. Do that – eat whole foods, work out consistently, and get your steps in – and its only a matter of time until you have the body of your dreams! Make the commitment to yourself – that’s truly what it is. With a new perspective, it’s that much easier to make that changes necessary in your life.