As I was writing an article to raise awareness about American Heart Month, I realized that I have really slacked off on many of the things that are potential risk factors for my heart, all while being acutely aware of my family’s long history with heart disease.
So what the heck happened? Why did I stop exercising? My diet is not really terrible, but I do love a good cupcake! When I dig deep into why I am not my fittest self, I see that I just get bored. The same workout becomes monotonous for me. Sometimes, the weather plays into whether or not I want to get outside for a walk. And sometimes, I let work or other people take up too much of my time. I get too busy.
What’s the common theme of those thoughts? If you know me, you know what I am going to say next: “These are stories I made up to protect myself.” The fact of the matter really is that I am the only person who can control what does or does not get done for my health. We all have the same 24 hours per day, but we each use them differently. I am the person who decides IF and WHEN I take a walk, swim, or just do planking. And I often perceive it as a chore. If I remember back to the last time I was on a regular workout plan, I looked forward to the exercise because each day was different (trainer planned), and I was part of a group with a contest attached. If I failed, my team failed. And I never wanted that to happen! So I faithfully did the work.
This leads me to the next truth: We often are okay with letting ourselves slide, as long as no one else is affected. Except, if you really think about it, the state of your health and well-being affects many others. My husband and kids, grandkids, my co-workers, my friends, my colleagues across the nation. When I suffer, they suffer with me. If I cannot walk a mile, I might miss a graduation. If I cannot breathe well, I might not be able to travel. If my heart is damaged, I might not live to see my grandkids graduate or marry. Why would I want to miss that?
So here’s the deal: We are all human. One cupcake won’t kill you, but you don’t need it more than on occasion. Exercise won’t kill you, but not doing it might. Knowing why you don’t exercise and becoming motivated to get healthy is what will help you make positive change. Understanding the hows and whys of our actions is part of what coaching is. As a coach, I guide you through the same thought processes I followed in this article. Your coach doesn’t tell you what to do. We are not magicians or physicians. However, we can help guide your vision of what your best self looks like, with planning and support to get there.
Perhaps it is time to interview a few coaches to see who fits best with your personality and values. And get to work on making 2025 your best year ever! With that, I am off to take a walk!