One thing I have to admit these last few years is that I’m more easily distracted than ever. And I’ve been wondering: is it perimenopause, or is the world we live in?
No matter the reason, maintaining consistency in our lives is the key to achieving our goals.
And I know that consistency is probably one of the hardest things to ‘sell’ in this era of quick fixes and ready-made solutions.
I’ve fallen into the trap of thinking that I can achieve something quickly. When I saw someone achieving something great, I thought they must be really lucky.
But good health and happiness don’t mysteriously appear overnight and don’t necessarily depend on good luck. I wrote an article a while ago on Health, Luck, and Chronic Illness to give you an idea of how luck can affect your future health.
But bringing good things into our lives is not at all black and white either; we need to look at:
🔸 Our perspective,
🔸 Where we’re headed and
🔸 What we are focussed on.
These three things will determine the outcome of our actions.
So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of this issue of perimenopause, consistency, and distractions.
Am I more distracted during perimenopause?
Good question!
I think the distractions that present to us during perimenopause are associated with two different side effects from hormonal changes during perimenopause.
First, the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause can affect the way that our brains process information.
Oestrogen is required for brain plasticity, memory, and recall. However, as oestrogen levels shift and decline during perimenopause, our ability to remain focused on a task can be challenged.
It’s also worth noting that as our oestrogen levels begin to decrease, our interest in things that we previously found fascinating or rewarding may change.
Simply put, our ‘care for others’ may decline, and our energy may shift to maintaining our own well-being.
While these are potential reasons for a decline in attention, focus and consistency, these are NOT excuses for giving up on a project or not bothering to work on yourself.
This is to help you understand that the challenges you might experience during your menopausal transition are natural and temporary.
What if I get distracted?
Even when writing this article, I’ve been distracted!
However, I have used the steps below to maintain my direction and continue working towards the goal of being able to support and help you with your consistency. I’ve been the guinea pig for this practice.
Getting distracted is common, and we should not be ashamed of it or use it as an excuse to abandon our goals.
Coming back to our task, picking ourselves up, and resuming the journey on our path helps to (re)establish consistency.
The steps to maintaining consistency
Structure and habits create a foundation for consistency in our lives. But this doesn?t mean it’s always going to be easy, or smooth sailing.
Using these steps as a guide can help us to:
🔸 remain on task,
🔸 pick up where we left off and
🔸 remain focussed on a project that we’re working on.
So, let’s begin:
1. Set clear goals using the old SMART goals method. Choose goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.
2. Establish a routine: Block out time in your calendar to work on your task. Even if this is only a 15-minute block of time each day, this regularity will ensure that you keep working towards your goal.
3. Begin small: sometimes, the thought of working on a big project can seem overwhelming. Start by nibbling around the edges of your project to build confidence and motivation.
4. Prioritise: Identify the most important parts of the project and focus your attention on these tasks. This will ensure that your efforts align with your overall intention.
5. Use tracking tools: An old-fashioned checklist on your fridge or any of the numerous phone apps can help track your progress. Seeing tangible results can help you to stay focused and motivated.
6. Create reminders: use reminders or alarms on your phone to prompt you to stick to your routine and work towards achieving your task.
7. Stay flexible: Life can present challenges, and you may sometimes realise that your goal has changed. Allow yourself the flexibility to shift your direction or the goalposts.
8. Limit distractions: Switching off the TV, putting your phone on silent, or leaving it in another room can help you feel distanced from obvious distractions and more focused on your project.
9. Hold yourself accountable: discuss your project or goals with a friend or family member. Tell them what you are working on and share your progress and challenges with someone who cares.
10. Reflect and (re)evaluate: regularly check in on your progress. Review what is working and what isn’t and adjust accordingly.
11. Practice self-compassion. View your progress and achievements with the same eyes that you would those of others. Acknowledge your progress, learn from your mistakes, and see your ‘failures as an opportunity to grow and learn.
12. Celebrate your small wins: It’s easy to overlook small accomplishments on the path to achievement. Acknowledge your progress, pat yourself on the back, and reward yourself for your consistent work. You got this!
That’s a lot of steps to follow – do I need to do ALL of those things?
Yeah, I know 12 separate steps seem overwhelming when you look at them, that’s enough to get you feeling distracted already.
But I assure you, this is not a strict script that you need to follow to the letter!
Thank goodness.
These steps are here to guide you on the path to achieving your goals.
Revisit these steps, practising the ones that resonate with you. When you feel motivated, try the more challenging steps.
Implementing these strategies can help you take a more consistent and structured approach to achieving your health goals, which can help you maintain a sense of stability during perimenopause.
Where to from here?
Maintaining consistency while transitioning through perimenopause is an ongoing project. Each time you pick yourself up and refocus your attention, you are (re)training your physiology to maintain your steady focus.
If you find this content valuable and are looking for tools to help you transition through menopause naturally, you may be interested in our 12-week Natural Menopause Mastery Program. This comprehensive program will make you feel more confident, motivated, and capable of gliding through your menopausal transition with grace and dignity.
To find out more, you can view the program here:
Natural Menopause Mastery Program
Or contact us directly to discuss your options.
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