Mindset and Motivation: How small insights can lead to big results
By: Roxane Shymkiw
The one life lesson I have learned, in working towards a healthy lifestyle, in my own work and with my clients, is that lifetime habits don’t come from overhauling our entire routine overnight. It’s the small insights that are the most powerful and go on to impact almost every other area of our lives.
Although we tend to look for motivation in the grand scheme of things, like a new diet plan or a fresh start on Monday, transformation really starts in the way we think. It’s a shift in mindset or the realization that something small has had a ripple effect. One of the best tools we all have, but need to practise more, is self-awareness. It’s in that moment when we realize “I snack when I’m bored, not because I am hungry” or “I actually feel better when I slow down during meals”, that is more powerful than any nutrition protocol. I know, a bold statement from someone who specializes in nutrition, but it is true. Insight builds internal motivation, and so instead of some external force trying to exact change, we are aligning our thoughts with actions rather than it being a test of willpower.
We wait for some sort of external motivation before we take action, but it often works the other way around. Action leads to motivation, where one positive step can lead to many others. When we shift our attitudes and beliefs from “I should..” to “I choose..” this sets us up for internal motivation and can be the catalyst for choosing better foods, better behaviours or better choices. Internal motivation tends to drive us to pursue goals for their own sake, whereas external motivation often stems from unrelated rewards or pressures and is not necessarily related to the goal itself.
What is so powerful about a shift in mindset is that one small insight, if consistently practised, can lead to big changes. For example, I started to drink more water first thing in the morning because I know how important hydration is, but I kept it up because I realized I felt clearer and more energized earlier in the day.
So, how can we switch our mindset and boost our motivation?
· Pause and reflect – Ask ourselves, what do we really need before we act? Is it comfort, energy, connection, or nourishment?
· Focus on the positive – Cultivate a positive mindset by practising gratitude, focusing on your strengths, and setting realistic goals.
· Set achievable goals – Break down large goals into smaller, more manageable steps to stay motivated and on track.
· Journal the journey – Writing down your small insights helps to make them stick. It can help you picture the moment more clearly.
· Practice self-compassion – Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially during challenging times.
· Practise awareness – Each small realization is a movement in the right direction. It puts change in motion.
· Reframe your setbacks – Instead of “I failed” think of it as “What can I learn from this?”. Mindset is a muscle that becomes stronger with use and reflection.
· Celebrate your successes – Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments to reinforce positive behaviours and maintain motivation.
Final thoughts
Always remember, transformation isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up and being present. By starting to be more aware, noticing patterns and pausing before you act, you will begin to act with intention. Don’t underestimate the power of small insights - these are most often the things that lead to the most profound and transformative changes.
Ready to take the next step toward better health? At No Shoes Nutrition, we offer personalized consultations, inspiring group programs, hands-on cooking classes, and engaging speaking events—all designed to help you thrive from the inside out. Whether you're just starting your wellness journey or looking to level up, we're here to support you every step of the way. Book your free consultation today and discover how we can help you nourish your body, energize your life, and achieve your goals.
