If you’ve ever played a board game with a young child you will have undoubtedly noticed two things. Number one, they make up rules as they go along and number two, the rules constantly change to suit their whims. They have little or no use for the dynamics of rules, nor do they care. They simply want to play, and play their way. As adults, our lives are full of rules, some self imposed, others placed upon us by the powers that be. But what if, for just a few moments each day, you could play by your own rules?
Of course, no one is suggesting that you break any rules, but by all means feel free to create a few new ones in your life, even if they exist only for a moment and simply to suit a whim.
New rule: You could take 10 minutes to yourself and sit in the sunlight on a mild winter day.
New rule: You could take 5 deep breaths and skip one stressful activity today.
New rule: You may excuse yourself from one household chore of your choice today.
They may seem small, but small changes make for long-term success. And there is something empowering, liberating and relaxing when you make up the rules to your own life.
The say, “it’s not important if you win or lose, it’s how you play the game,” also applies to weight loss. So why not make up a few of your own rules as you go along? It will certainly make things more fun, interesting, less stressful and who knows, you might even win.