Why We Need Kaizen
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what kaizen is and why it works, let's first consider the alternative and why it is so important.
As mentioned in the brief introduction, the approach many of us impulsively take toward self-improvement is to try to change everything at once. The example of starting a new training program where you train four times a week and reduce your calorie intake is an example that many people can relate to. Perhaps you have done something similar yourself?
The only problem is that this type of approach completely misunderstands human psychology and the reality of our lifestyle. Think about it. If you're currently out of shape, it's probably because you're not getting enough exercise and because you're not eating right. But why is that? Most likely it's because you're currently too tired and unmotivated to do those things.
You probably get home at night and feel absolutely exhausted. You just don't have the energy or the willpower to exercise, and that's completely understandable. And you expect you to now suddenly pull this kind of energy out of nowhere? You think you can go from being too tired to exercise to being able to exercise four times a week? And let's break down for a moment what that actually means. It means getting home from work and putting on your gym clothes. Then you'll have to drive to the gym in the cold, shower after your workout and change, and then drive home.
