Why do most people wait to make the changes they already know they need to make?
This is a great question.
Everyday, I meet with people in the hopes of helping them, and thankfully we have helped many.
For those we haven’t been able to help, I believe there are three main reasons that stop people from taking control of their wellness:
Schedule: Finding time is a big obstacle when it comes to why people can’t eat better or workout, or even be active
Finances: Budgeting isn’t easy.
Motivation: Many people we talk to tell us the reason they are out of shape, have gained 30 lbs, or their doctor is worried about their heart health is because they have no motivation.
Do these reasons sound familiar?
For everyone we’ve ever talked with, these three reasons are given by almost all of them.
Here’ the truth: They aren’t reasons. They’re excuses.
I know this sounds harsh, but I say this in love.
After 6+ years helping and watching other help people learn how to make a positive difference in their lives, I can tell you honestly, none of the reasons above are valid.
They truly are excuses.
Reality is difficult to confront, but I am happy to bring it in front of you if it will help you live a longer, healthier life with your friends, family, and those you care about.
Here’s what to do about it.
Schedule
Our time is incredibly valuable. However, if you don’t make the time now, you will be forced to give the time later.
There are numerous studies showing the massive positive effect nutrition and exercise has on life expectancy and quality of life.
Even if you start with 30-minutes to 1-hour a day, 3 times a week, you can make a big difference in your health.
There are 168 hours in a week, and all I’m asking is for you to dedicate 1.5-3 of those to your health and fitness.
My challenge to you is to start with 3 days per week, and work your way up from there. Make it a habit. If you’re too tired after work, get up early and do it before you take a shower in the morning. Go walk outside. You can do it.
Finances
Money is a big one.
I talk with many people that can’t afford to pay for a gym, or time with a Personal Trainer.
Finances are real, you make what you make, and yes, you can make more, but that takes more time and effort.
So assuming you are doing your best, how do you make money appear to pay for your gym?
You set a budget.
At the end of each month, set aside money that you will use toward your health and fitness next month.
Set this money aside, so that you know how much you can spend on restaurants, bars, and going out with friends.
Remember, your health and fitness is an investment.
Social activities, although important, are an expense.
Motivation
How do you become motivated when you don’t have any?
Confront reality.
Does your family have a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, etc?
Did you meet with your doctor for a check-up and did he prescribe medications for your cholesterol?
Did one of your loved ones suffer from a heart attack?
Do you live with constant knee or back pain?
If any of the above are true, it’s time to do something about it!
Motivation is realizing how much you are/could be paying for pills and medicine, and allocating that money into your health and fitness by joining a gym.
I don’t think it’s too far a stretch to say that paying for a gym membership, working out with like-minded individuals 3 hours a week, and having fun in the process is a WAY better solution than having to take high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol medicine. I’m not crazy, right?
If you need more help, find a friend who can keep you accountable – the best is if you can workout together!
Find a Coach who understands you and cares about you (not just your money, but really cares about helping you).
There’s a big correlation to success in accountability.
Find group classes, getting to know 10-12 people very well by sweating and working hard together will make you want to keep coming back again and again.
You can find motivation, all you need to do is look for it.
Take one of the steps above and enjoy the fire of being motivated and seeing the change you started!
It’s tough to deal with the truth of excuses, but you can handle it. And, you can make a difference.
You aren’t stuck, you don’t have to stay unhealthy.