It's the time of year when a lot of people start doing some self-reflection and thinking on what changes they'd like to make in 2022. It's a great time to turn over a new leaf, try something different, or simply try again.
The thing is we focus a lot on WHAT we want and HOW to make it happen- which are super important and necessary- but what can be kind of glazed over is the support system needed to attain our goals.
Support is key to success. When you know you have someone to lean on when it's tough, you need encouragement, or a swift kick in the ass for some accountability it makes things more manageable.
So if someone you love has a wellness goal like losing 70lbs or competing in a powerlifting meet or simply trying to eat healthier here are some tips on what to do and what NOT to do so you can be a source of super star support...
Get clear on the goal-Make sure you know exactly what they're trying to accomplish so you're on the same page.
Know their plan- If you know the steps they're trying to take and the positive habits they're trying to build you'll have a better idea of how to encourage them and keep them accountable.
Ask how you can help- Maybe they want to eat healthier, but they hate to cook so you could help them by cooking with them or even for them sometimes. Maybe they're good once they get to the gym, but getting there is a real struggle so you hog tie them, throw them in the back seat, and drive them there. Gotta do what ya gotta do 🤷♀️
Acknowledge the small wins- It's easy to get discouraged and want to give up if you're not seeing big changes right off the bat (which is normal-it takes time) so when you see the little things they're doing differently, such as eating out less or taking a walk every morning, point them out! Amp them up! Behavior changes are big wins because they add up to the progress they're looking for!
There are a few things you should NOT do if you want to be truly supportive...
DO NOT make the process harder for them by forcing them to use their willpower more than necessary. Willpower only lasts for so long so positive habits and super awesome support is key. For example, if they have the tendency to eat ALL the tater chips and cookies don't keep a large stock of tater chips and cookies in the house. If there are going to be some in the house make sure they stay out of sight and aren't easily accessible.
DO NOT try to pull them away from their positive habits because YOU want to do something that doesn't align with what they want to do. For example, if they're trying to be more active don't try to get them to watch Netflix with you instead. How about you take a walk with them and then watch an episode on Netflix? Win-win.
DO NOT down play the small steps forward that they take-no matter how small they may seem to you. I've literally watched people do this to
their significant others and it just blows my mind. For instance, f they normally eat 4 cookies for dessert and they choose to only eat 3 don't negate it by saying they shouldn't have cookies at all. They'll just feel like they've failed and aren't putting enough effort in (so why bother trying?). Plus IT IS OKAY TO EAT COOKIES. Instead shine a light on the fact that they took a step forward by eating one less cookie. WINNING!
DO NOT enable them-If they start slacking off and skipping workouts and eating all the fast food because work has been super tough (or something) don't let that slide by! Keep them accountable! Help them in some way-cooking for them and hog tying are always options.
If you support your person, not only will it help them be more successful, but it could help you reach your own goals because they'll probably want to be there for you as well. And through the whole process you two become closer. More of that win-win good stuff.
All of that being said...what are your goals for 2022? Do you have a good support system? If you need some accountability and support I'm here for you. Shoot me an email at janna@jannalynettefitness.com and let's talk about what you want to do. The time is now!
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