Hi Wattle Tribe,
We live in a world that celebrates instant gratification—quick fixes, fast results, and overnight transformations. However when it comes to real, lasting change, the truth is there’s no shortcut.
Making positive shifts in our health and well-being takes time, patience, and consistency. It’s not a sprint—it’s a lifelong journey. This week, let’s dive into why change takes time, how to embrace the process, and ways to stay committed when progress feels slow.
Why Change Takes Time
The idea that we can completely transform our habits overnight is not only unrealistic—it’s unfair to ourselves. Our bodies and minds need time to adjust, heal, and adapt to new routines.
Here’s why meaningful change is a gradual process:
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Your Body Needs Time to Respond
Whether you’re eating healthier, exercising more, or improving your sleep, your body doesn’t operate on a strict timeline. It takes weeks (sometimes months) for physiological changes to manifest. How long it takes depends on your frequency. Instead of focusing on immediate results, shift your mindset to how you feel along the way. -
New Habits Require Repetition
Research shows that it takes an average of 66 days to form a habit—not 21 as the myth suggests but remember it’s about how many times you do something that counts rather than how many days or weeks. So if you do something once a week rather than every day during a week, we all know which habit is more likely to stick. The key is consistency over intensity. It’s better to make small, sustainable changes than to go all in and burn out after a few weeks. -
Progress is Not Linear
One of the biggest challenges in any health journey is dealing with setbacks. There will be days when you feel like you’re making incredible progress, and others when you feel stuck or even moving backward. That’s normal.Progress often looks like a winding road, not a straight path. -
You Are a Bio-Individual
What works for one person might not work for you. Our bodies, lifestyles, and genetics all play a role in how we respond to changes. It’s important to find what works for your unique journey instead of comparing yourself to others.
How to Stay Patient and Trust the Process
If you’ve ever felt frustrated because you’re not seeing results fast enough, here are some ways to reframe you and stay committed:
1. Celebrate Small Wins
Instead of focusing on how far you have to go, shift your focus to what you’ve already accomplished. Did you drink more water today? Get a better night’s sleep? Choose a healthier meal? Every small victory is a step forward.
2. Track Your Progress in Non-Scale Ways
Many people rely on the scale to measure progress, but there are so many other indicators of success:
- More energy throughout the day
- Improved mood and mental clarity
- Better digestion and less bloating
- Feeling stronger and more capable in workouts
- Sleeping more soundly
3. Avoid Comparison
Social media makes it easy to compare our progress to others, but remember—you are on your own journey. The only person you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday.
4. Trust the Science of Slow Change
Quick-fix diets and intense workout regimens often fail because they’re not sustainable. Long-term success comes from small, manageable changes repeated consistently over time.
5. Adjust When Needed, But Don’t Quit
If something isn’t working, pivot—don’t abandon your goals. Maybe you need to adjust your approach, try a different workout, or experiment with new foods. Adaptability is key to long-term success.
Weekly Recipe: Comforting Lentil Soup
This nourishing soup is packed with fiber, protein, and warming spices, making it the perfect dish for cooler days and a great reminder that slow-cooked meals (just like change) are worth the wait!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils (red or green)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 handful fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Add lentils and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until lentils are soft.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
This soup is not only delicious and comforting, but it’s also packed with slow-digesting fiber and plant-based proteinto keep you satisfied and energized.
Product Comparison: Tools to Help You Track and Celebrate Progress
1. Fitbit or Apple Watch
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- Pros: Tracks daily movement, heart rate, and sleep patterns.
- Cons: Can be pricey.
- Best For: Anyone wanting to monitor long-term wellness trends.
2.A Guided Journal (e.g., The Daily Stoic Journal)
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- Pros: Encourages self-reflection and daily gratitude.
- Cons: Requires commitment to writing regularly.
- Best For: Those who love mindfulness and personal growth.
3. Mindfulness & Meditation Apps (e.g., Calm, Headspace)
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- Pros: Helps reduce stress and build patience for the journey.
- Cons: Some features require a paid subscription.
- Best For: Anyone struggling with the emotional side of habit-building.
Actionable Tip: Start a Progress Log
Take 5 minutes each week to reflect on your progress. Write down:
✅ One thing you did well
✅ One challenge you faced
✅ One small step you’ll take next week
This simple practice helps you stay accountable and appreciate how far you’ve come.
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey
Change is not about perfection—it’s about commitment, patience, and self-compassion. Some days will feel easier than others, but every step you take (no matter how small) brings you closer to your goals.
Be kind to yourself. Trust that the process is working. And most importantly—keep going.
With love,
Ana