[surgngnl]

this weekend, i found myself staying in (i'm a social butterfly usually) and reflecting on what my life has become lately. i've come to the conclusion that i don't like where i am right now and i want to make changes.

my problem is: i don't know where to begin.

i can't tell you the last time i've done physical exercise, i smoke a pack a day and have at least 3 beers daily and i feel like i'm becoming more stupid as every day passes. i didn't use to be like this. i used to have my stuff together. but, then, 3 years ago, i got out of a horribly abusive relationship and it threw my world upside down. the responsible, healthy person i was disappeared. i haven't been able to find her since.

can anyone suggest how i get started? i took the first step of getting on some anti-depressants and i can feel then finally working. i have more thoughts of getting my butt up and doing something - exercising, volunteering, applying to a master's degree program, etc. but that's all they are... thoughts. how do i make myself get up and actually do it? where do i start first? i feel like i need to ease into things slowly. i can't get overwhelmed or else i'll retreat again. i know myself. i know that i have to start with one thing and just add new things as i go along.

what should i start with first? i have to get this drinking under control, but i can't even consider actual rehab. i have to stop smoking, but i know how hard that is. i need to condition my brain to think again.

as an outsider, what suggestions does anyone have as to what i can do to get myself back on track? i'll try anything at this point.

i welcome all suggestions...

thanks guys and gals!

[Ronni_W]

In desiring to do such a major overhaul, it is often suggested to start with the 'smallest' thing -- the one that will be easiest to implement.

Maybe something like 5 or 10 minutes twice a day, of positive visualization and/or affirmations? Maybe seeing yourself taking a walk or doing a yoga class?
I know it sounds ridiculously tiny...but it does start to recondition your subconscious and your body & conscious mind do tend to follow.

I hear you about the alcohol. Can you see your way clear to replacing one bottle a day with something like a sports drink or green tea or something?

The thing about getting into volunteering too soon is that it feels all like we're doing it for someone else - we make the effort and someone else benefits. It can feel more like a drag than a good thing, at this stage.
So, it likely will be more inspiring and self-motivational to start off doing things that you feel you will be there greatest beneficiary.

Or. You could just say, "HEY!!! surgngnl...get off your butt and start doing something, anything, just one thing."
But our conscious and subconscious minds tend to resist those types of orders.

Best of luck. You've passed the first major hurdle in any event...you are feeling the desire!

[Star Gazer]

Honestly, watch the DVD or read the book, "You Can Heal Your Life."

(Don't knock it 'til you try it.)

[lino]

Do you have a dog? If you have a place that allows you to keep one then maybe you can try getting a dog. It has some good benefits IMO - you'll get a great companion, looking after it will give your life some responsibility & a bit of discipline and walking it will give you some exercise.

I think it could be a decent start

[Rav]

I suggest calling up a friend and just going for a walk, downtown or in the park. It should be a friend that you don't have to be "on" for. Someone you'd be comfortable throwing your hair up in a ponytail and wearing sweats and just talking to. Connecting with someone in a relaxed manner + fresh air + exercise always does wonders for me.