Healthy Habits

When You’re the Only One Making Health Changes…

By September 17, 2017 No Comments

Making healthy habit changes is hard enough to do on your own. When you get on a roll, you want to share your success with significant others, friends, family, kids, and co-workers. Not everyone is in the same place in their life as you are. It’s important to consider a few key components of change when sharing your story.

All change requires desire, effort, and discipline. It’s often easier to remain comfortable in our old habits, and when we are juggling a lot of responsibilities there often isn’t space to mix things up. Often, change is inspired by a major life event or a newly discovered motivation. Be mindful of the special set of circumstances that prompted your choices.

Will power is a limited resource. When we are encouraging our loved ones to make positive changes, it’s vital to take a step back and see where they are in their lives. We may be really excited about eating healthier, exercising more, and losing a few pounds but the person you’re sharing your success story with might not have the capacity for change right now. Trying to change your daily habits requires a lot of energy.

This doesn’t mean you should refrain from sharing your excitement. Think of ways to communicate what you are doing while being respectful of everyone else’s journey. Transforming to a real food diet and exercising daily are the most powerful things you can do for your health. Lead by example and be available as a resource for those who are thinking about change. Try to use phrases like “This is what I’ve been doing” instead of “You should do this”. Wait for people to approach you with questions instead of flaunting it.

Encouragement goes a long way. Habit changing can take months and even years sometimes. It is an evolving and very personal practice. Encourage others to find their motivation and personalize changes that work for them. Transforming ownership of your health is liberating. Be excited, patient, and uplifting for everyone else around you.

Sean Fitzpatrick

Author Sean Fitzpatrick

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