Some people subscribe to the idea that it is better to ask for forgiveness than it is to ask for permission.
Others prefer to follow guidelines and avoid making waves.
Regardless of which philosophy you adhere to, you’ve most likely created your own set of internal rules to apply in all areas of your life. Some rules you’ve learned from society, or from those who raised you. And some rules you’ve created on your own as a way to navigating your circumstances.
You have rules about how to spend money, how hard to work, how to manage your day, how to treat others, what to do when you feel stressed, vulnerable, overwhelmed, or under attack (just to name a few).
One of my rules used to be, “If you want to ditch a feeling of stress or anxiety, eat a piece a cake (or cookies, or pizza).” And it worked! In fact, I once felt so dysregulated after an encounter with a Customer Service Rep. that I tried a number of tactics to calm my nervous system down, including mindfulness breathing. But only after gobbling down two chocolate chip cookies did I begin to feel better. I told a therapist this hoping she could help me, but all it yielded was a good laugh for both of us.
I knew I had to take matters into my own hands.
I began exploring my internal programs and the subconscious rules I was following. Then, after reviewing my rules, I decided it was time to become a Rule Breaker!
After that, every time I got tempted to medicate with food, I reminded myself that I am a person who breaks the rules. In fact, breaking the rules helped me lose 28 lbs. this year.
What are your rules?
·   To avoid boredom, or an unpleasant task, scroll social media?
·  When feeling a build up of stress, lose your patience with others?
·  Beating yourself up is a great way to be better in some way?
Think about it.
What are you leaning on to deal with discomfort?
These are your rules and it’s probably time to break some of them.
So while you’re considering your aspirations and goals for the new year, take some time to connect with your subconscious rules, the ones that are driving your behaviors.
And when you discover those that no longer serve your highest potential,
break the rules!
As for me, I’m here to help.
With love and gratitude,
