Consistency without the control
Content.
Choosing to head to bed early and put your phone away 30 minutes before bed...
vs.
Dragging yourself to a 6:30 am gym class even though you’re still recovering from a cold because “it’s Monday and that’s what I always do.”
Side by side, the difference becomes pretty clear.
One is soft discipline. The other is rigidity.
To me, soft discipline is about creating habits that support your wellbeing while still leaving room for flexibility. It’s choosing the behaviours that help you feel like the best version of yourself, whilst also responding to what your body needs on any given day.
Some of my practices include committing to a morning gratitude journal, scheduling in a weekly grocery shop (which I have zero shame admitting is usually a Friday arvo ritual), and going for an evening walk after dinner. These are habits that add to my life - but they aren’t rules I have to follow perfectly.
Rigidity, on the other hand, thrives on black-and-white thinking. It tells us there’s only one “right” way to do things, leaving little room for life’s inevitable changes. It often asks us to override our body’s cues in favour of sticking to the plan, even when that plan no longer serves us.
Perfection doesn’t create sustainable habits. Consistency comes from creating habits that can move with you through different seasons of life.
I first came across this concept through Elizabeth Endres Orrigo (love TWP!), and it’s something I’ve shared with clients ever since because it offers such a refreshing way to think about consistency. Discipline doesn’t have to be harsh to be effective. Sometimes the most disciplined thing you can do is adapt.
Nutrition Tip. Putting the crunch back in.
I remember hearing on a podcast that we naturally gravitate towards soft, easy-to-eat foods. While there’s nothing wrong with that, I think we sometimes underestimate the power of a little crunch.
Foods with a crunchy texture often require more chewing, which naturally slows the pace of a meal. Slowing down can make eating feel more enjoyable and may give your body more time to recognise feelings of satisfaction and fullness.
Adding crunch doesn’t have to mean overhauling your meal. It could be as simple as:
Sprinkling nuts or seeds over your yoghurt or salad.
Roasting chickpeas to toss through a salad.
Including a crisp apple alongside your afternoon snack.
It’s a small change that can make meals feel more satisfying - both in texture and enjoyment.
Place Recommendation. Lucette, Bowral.
My family and I recently spent the weekend in Bowral and stopped by Lucette for brunch - and I can’t recommend it enough.
I ordered the Egg Cocotte (Jordan’s Croque Monsieur was also incredible) and the hot chocolate was next level (see below... 🤤). The vibe is warm, cosy and full of charm.
If you’re ever visiting the Southern Highlands, I’d definitely add Lucette to your list. It’s the perfect spot for a slow brunch.
Quote.
Keep a little room for wonder.
- Mary Oliver
A little reminder to leave space for curiosity, flexibility and the unexpected.
