Written by Brooke Heather
When deciding the terms of this challenge, I had to debate several factors. I was constantly tossing between when to start the challenge, whether I wanted to set realistic or challenging goals, or even both!
I was finding that my acne was flaring up, I was spending way too much on fast food and delivery, and overall, just not taking care of myself in a time where I should be even more than usual.
By deciding to do this challenge, I wanted to cut back on some of my less-than-ideal behavioural habits to cleanse myself for the semester.
Ultimately, I started this challenge in the middle of the week to remind myself (and everyone!) that you are not confined to the restraints of setting ‘normal’ timeframes. “I’ll start on Monday” is arguably one of the biggest premeditative markers for failure. Waiting gives you time to procrastinate, if you’ve sensed you need a change, there’s no better time than the present.
That’s not only how I chose the start date but also how I picked the ‘rules’ for me to follow. The key was choosing a combination of achievable or new goals that will continue to support my selfcare and healthy habits throughout the semester.
The daily rules are:
1. 2 – 2.5L water/day.
2. 20 – 30 minutes physical activity
3. No takeaway (fast food or delivery… yikes)
4. 30+ minutes of Uni content
5. No coffee!!
6. Taking allll of my AM/PM supplements
Day 1 – Thursday
Motivation was high for the first day, no rule breaks!
Day 2 – Friday
I started to really crave coffee; however, I explored alternative drinks such as matcha and hot chocolates which was helpful!
Day 3 – Saturday
I couldn’t complete my physical activity goal on this day, as I may overlooked the practicality of this for a weekend night shift worker… I did find alternatives to avoid my staple takeaway foods, such as creative throw-together foods within my kitchen (taking that as a win!). I also found myself to be very productive!
Day 4 – Sunday
Felt great! Hydrated and a huge reduction in my incessant coffee craving, its absence was only noticed through a social perspective. I had another day of productivity and high energy and noticed that my skin was looking significantly healthier (thank you water and supplements). I also was mindful and practiced reflecting, finding enjoyment in new activities.
Day 5 – Monday
Another successful day, there were more challenges in my work life and I adapted well still.
Day 6 – Tuesday
I failed the coffee rule BIG time as it was a day of unexpected additions to my schedule, coffee is a comfort for me, so I felt it was needed!
Day 7 – Wednesday
Started to trail off on this day, was feeling a bit under the weather but still extra mindful.
Assessing the week’s progress:
I found that the challenge was insightful for shining the light on the challenges in my day-to-day life.
I have continued to be proactive in my water intake and reducing my coffee rather, which are huge improvements and have noticed my energy and skin are greatly appreciative of these adjustments.
Not to mention, my bank account was thrilled to not have Uber Eats making its dent. Additionally, remember that failure is okay and to focus on what you achieved, you’re human and goals are what you’re striving for, not a necessity.
Best of luck for your 7-day reset!
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
