Rally the Herd: Part 1

ASSEMBLE YOUR TEAM

After deciding what to do, how to do it, and why it's important, it's time to make the path easier to accomplish your goals and avoid pitfalls in advance.

When you begin to take stock of your choices and behaviors you will notice just how many other people can have an effect on your choices. The boss who keeps you an extra hour at work, the significant other who is taking forever to get ready to go out, the kids who need to eat RIGHT NOW. All of these other folks have the potential to wreak havoc on an otherwise good decision-maker who motivates the conscious and unconscious. Actively seeking nutrient dense foods and sectioning off workout times is tough in a world of easy access McDonald's and Netflix, not to mention when those close to us become part of the problem as well. The solution? Get them on board.

One of the first questions we ask new clients is also one of the most important: "Do you have a support system of people who are behind what you are doing?" People without a support structure are not necessarily doomed to fail, but they've certainly been dealt a bad hand. 

Overweight people are more likely to have overweight friends. This is not because we like to hang out with similar people, but because groups are more likely to influence each other's decisions and ultimately long term behaviors. I'm certainly not suggesting we do away with our more portly pals, but we do need to recognize the influences those close to us can have. Imagine the following two friends:

Debbie Downer: "You're going to the gym? You can work out later! We won't be able to make that movie tonight."

Wendy Workout: "We had a lazy day yesterday, it's time to work out! Come on, I'll do it with you."

So how do we turn Debbie Downer into Wendy Workout? The best way is through consistent and clear communication. Have a sit down with your friends, or have a family meeting. Tell those close to you that you are embarking on an important journey that is going to require their help. It will allow you to be a healthier, better version of yourself, so that you can better be there for them. This conversation alone is often enough to Rally the Herd, and get those closest to you on your side. But unfortunately it will require some reinforcement. Don't be embarrassed about wanting to make a positive change in your body and your life. Recruit your friends and family to try it out with you and share in your progress. Be clear that you need their help, and if they are leading you off the path, tell them so. Leaving things unsaid can be a recipe for resentment and misunderstanding, so be upfront.

A strong support system can get us back on track when motivation falters. So go recruit an army to stand with you, and work together toward success.