My Story: Getting Into the Fit Mentality
One thing I really struggled with when I made the decision to lead a fit and active life was maintaining relationships with people who were used to the old me—the carefree girl who preferred spontaneity and partying to routines and workouts. What they didn’t understand was that my decision impacted all aspects of my life, not just the time I spent at the gym. And to accomplish the goals I set for myself, I needed a change in mind, not just a change in body.
You absolutely need to surround yourself with positive influences and keep an upbeat, can-do attitude to achieve your goals. Chances are, friends and family may not be the most supportive-tempting you with familiar foods or activities that are not a part of your new lifestyle, making fun of the time you spend on working out, or not supporting you in your new decisions. But there is a reason they are part of your life, and you are part of theirs. So by being patient and keeping the lines of communication open, you can save your relationships and keep making progress in your quest to be fit.
It probably won’t be easy, but you can definitely do it! Just be honest with your friends and family—“Thanks for the offer, but I don’t need a piece of cake” or “Sorry, I can’t go out with you tonight-I’ve got an intense workout tomorrow morning” and try to make compromises. Instead of going clubbing on a Friday night, grab dinner or go to Happy Hour after work. Or instead of eating a calorie-laden meal at a restaurant, invite your friends over and cook a healthy homemade meal.
You also need to make a mental switch! Believe in yourself. Have the confidence that you can and will achieve your goals, and this will help you stick to the diet and exercise commitments you have made. In no time at all, you will be well on your way to FIT!
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thinking and being positive
This is a great article! You're right, being fit is a lifestyle decision and for most people involves making positive changes in many areas that may or may not be accepted by your friends for many reasons most of which have nothing to do with YOUR decision. You will make new friends to replace those who don't applaud your decsions and accomplishments. Most important is to focus on how much better life is than to focus on what you may have given up! Remember, its not just about thinking about health or even practicing healthly habits, it's about BEING HEALTH!
Keep it up!
Darren Clair, MD
Vibrance Health Services
Mentality...The Answer
You are right! Mentality is the key to life. In my younger years I was plagued by addiction and have kicked them all. What I've learned from all of this is, that those enabling friends not only need to change or GO, but that attitude is life. There is no reason to pull the extra weight ( no pun ) of people who can't, won't or just don't want to wake up to the truth of fitness.As for family? Well just be patient, cheerful and remember that they may still be in the throes of food addiction. Life is replete with addiction but the very act of avoiding them can be thought of as a type of exercise in itself. The thing thats holding me back in my aerobic routine is the fear of west Nile virus. I'm an avid hiker... Don't forget to exercise the face by smiling, and work those abs by laughing! LOL ...Michael T
WOW!!! I really needed that Mo!
That is EXACTLY what I needed! Everything is so true. Since we have a great deal of the same friends, you know some of the issues I face daily. It's great having you around "Home Girl"! :-) Much Love!
Regards,
Keneth "Kennessey" Jackson
Exactly
Getting mentally committed was the best thing I did. The biggest thing that changed was eating, I don't eat ANYTHING but healthy food. At 220 pounds I decided to start working out, and at about 215, I committed fully, mental and physical. Now I'm down to 170.
WOW!
Nice work! Losing 50lbs is no small task. What was your biggest secret?