Birthday reflections

‘And in the end it’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years’ – Abraham Lincoln

It’s my birthday this weekend. It’s not a big one but I’m at an age where I can’t actually believe I’m as old as I am! Of course, none of us know how long we have left in this world, regardless of how old we are, but I guess there comes a time when you know for sure that you have less years remaining than you have already experienced. It’s what you do with that information that matters.

For me, it makes me want to live every moment, make the most of every opportunity that comes my way, basically live life to the full. Life goes by so quickly and it would be so very sad to look back with regret about the things we didn’t do. I’m a positive, glass half-full person by nature so I don’t let being another year older bring me down in any way. Instead I embrace it, celebrate it and use it as a kick to do more, enjoy more and create opportunities.

I don’t know about you but I find birthdays a time for looking back and forward. I guess it’s what a lot of people do on New Year’s Eve but I’m not one for resolutions so I’ve never actually done that. For me, it’s my birthday that makes me want to reflect on the year that has gone and look forward to the year ahead.

Life this year has had its ups and downs, just like pretty much every other year, but of course the big difference this year is that we have been in some kind of lockdown for a large part of it. It’s been a strange year in so many ways but having had more time on my own has given me a chance to reflect on all sorts of things, and I believe, overall, I’m stronger than I was a year ago. But when I say stronger, I’m talking emotionally stronger, mentally stronger but most definitely not physically stronger! I’m inherently lazy so whilst I love the idea of doing regular workouts and keeping fit and active, it simply doesn’t happen. I’ve really noticed a drop in stamina and fitness since before lockdown and I don’t like it!!

So this is going to be a year of tiny tweaks to improve my fitness! Little things that are achievable, so that when I look back next October, I can see the progress I’ve made. I’ll feel fitter, my clothes will fit better and I’ll be able to walk further than I currently can. I’m not just going to say it this year, I’m going to actually do it.

One of the benefits of blogging is the incredible community of bloggers. The support and friendship out there is amazing but they can also make you accountable. So, my fellow bloggers, friends and family, I want you all to keep me on track! Ask me for a progress report any time – that will keep me on my toes!

I’m going to start by setting a minimum target of 4500 steps per day then, when I’m doing that comfortably, I’m going to increase it gradually. There are some great YouTube videos which get you walking in the comfort of your own home so no more excuses! I’m also planning to do yoga, pilates, breathing or stretching for at least 10 minutes twice a week. My targets are to improve my stamina and to find my abs! Not really tiny tweaks – more like big changes but, alongside this, I’m going to move more. Hula hooping (without the hoop!) while I clean my teeth, lunges or squats as I wait for the kettle to boil, getting up from my desk every 30 minutes to march on the spot for a couple of minutes – all things I can do easily and without really noticing. These are the tiny tweaks!

It’s a different kind of post this week, one which is more about me than I normally write but I hope that the tiny tweaks I am setting for myself might inspire you too. Have you found your fitness levels have dropped over lockdown? Or were you one of the numerous people who took up jogging or cycling, making the most of the quieter roads? How do you feel about birthdays? Are they a time of reflection for you too? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Until next time xx

If you enjoyed this post, please like it and let me know in the comments. As always, if you know someone else who might like my blog and needs some tiny tweaks in their life, please feel free to share!