Hey there. I used to spend a lot of time chasing what I thought was the “optimal” way to approach weight loss and fitness. Like many of you, I followed the advice of people who looked a certain way or quoted research studies that sounded really convincing. And for a while, I thought that was what I needed. If I could just find the best way to do it, I’d finally be successful.
But here’s what I’ve learned. That search for optimal is often what keeps people stuck. If just following a research-backed plan worked, it would have already worked for you. There’s a reason it hasn’t. Your life is different. Your preferences are different. Your day-to-day reality is not a science lab. It’s messy. It’s emotional. It’s real.
When you start with what you actually enjoy, everything changes. I’m talking about food, movement, and how you manage your energy and stress. For example, I keep Pop-Tarts in the pantry. Not because they’re perfect or nutrient dense, but because I enjoy them and they help me avoid more expensive, higher-calorie options from restaurants. They’re part of my strategy. And over time, I naturally choose them less. I go for dark chocolate instead. Not because I’m forcing myself to, but because I prefer it in that moment.
That’s the kind of flexibility that leads to consistency. And consistency is where change actually happens. It’s not about perfection or doing the most impressive workout or following the most “clean” diet. It’s about building routines around your preferences and building from there.
I always say you need to build the “your name” eating plan and the “your name” workout routine. Not someone else’s. Yours. Start with the foods you already like. Track what you enjoy eating with no judgment. Build your base around that. From there, you can slowly add more water, more fruits and vegetables, and other nutrient dense foods. But only once you’ve built a foundation of consistency.
And give it time. Trade years for decades. Even if it takes three years to really figure this out, imagine what the next 40 years could feel like when you’re finally comfortable with food, exercise, and yourself. Inside and out.
If you’re ready to stop chasing what’s optimal and start building what actually works for you, join me inside The YLF Experience. You’ll get guidance, structure, and support to build your forever active lifestyle.