The "Inner Critic" Is Bad at Math

The gallon challenge (drinking an entire gallon of milk in one go) or running a Marathon. It's a common pattern, of treating every task as an endurance game, pushing until our bodies are screaming to stop and seeing how long we can last. Attaching this game approach to everything is exhausting. When we attach it to our self worth when we don't finish everything, we aren't "good enough." This is your Inner Critic talking. The problem is, this critic doesn't understand reality. It thinks your the energizer bunny who should push through and go on forever.

Life Is a Resource Game

Think of your energy like money in a game of Monopoly. You only have a certain amount. Your brain uses 20% of your total energy! If you waste that energy on "ruminating" (thinking the same sad thoughts over and over), you won't have enough left to enjoy your life or help others.

Building Capacity vs. Forcing It

You can't force yourself to be stronger instantly. It would be like trying to turn a car at 80 miles per hour—you'll probably crash! Instead, you need to use adaptation.

To build capacity (the ability to do more), you need this cycle:

• Stress: Do a difficult task.

• Rebuild: Take a break and rest.

• Growth: Your body and brain get stronger for next time.

Focus on the Process

If you only focus on the results, you will get stressed. If you focus on the habits (the machine that makes the results), you will be much happier. Lower the intensity, celebrate your rest time, and listen to your body. Building a life you actually enjoy living is the best way to succeed.