We’re all custom-made, so why would we ever think that we should share the same goals, be motivated in the same way or have the same craving for a healthy lifestyle?
Let’s face it. Choosing to live healthy is a difficult and challenging lifestyle decision. It’s not just something you do every third Tuesday every other month. It’s a commitment to change and then maintain.
For each person, they should know that there is a plan for them to reach their goals. You just have to understand that what works for one person does not necessarily work for the next. For me, I am in a maintenance plan of keeping the muscle I have and replacing any other fat with muscle. To do this I eat a low-carb, high-protein format where I’m consuming smaller meals and snacks every two hours. People are all in different places, but this is what works for me. This is what works for me to reach my current goals. When I was training for the marathon, I had a completely different eating and work-out program than when I did the intense training (although I opted not to compete) like that of a body builder.
Here’s my list of suggested steps to go through to customize your plan.
1) Decide on your goal(s). Make it as specific as possible.
2) Evaluate how you like to work out. Do you like one-on-one training? Training with a friend? A gym? Maybe just at home? Using an online trainer?
3) Set a Time. Think about when you like to work out and what works best with your schedule. You may like to work out in the morning, but your schedule doesn’t allow it. Make the adjustments you need to and put your workout right on your schedule just like any other meeting or appointment and then respect yourself enough to keep it.
4) Do the research. Invest in a trainer, someone to write your program or pull together a schedule from the resources available online. Be involved in this process, ask questions and run the program by someone for a final check to assure you’re set to meet your goals.
5) Be realistic. The time it takes to change your body and lifestyle is not just a few days or a few weeks. Give yourself time (think months) to put your new plan into action. You may see some results right away, but for the big picture, it takes time. Don’t get discouraged by this. Plan for it.
6) Be accountable. Whether you’re working out with a friend or not, you need to establish a system of accountability. Make it to your workouts, stick to a plan, and let at least one other person know about your goals and plan to help hold you responsible for the commitment you’ve made.
7) Go for it! Jot down things that motivate you. And yes, it’s ok if it’s a chocolate shake. (Just change it to a protein chocolate fat-free, low-sugar shake and you’re set!) If motivation is working out with one other person to push you when you’re ready to give up. Find that person. If motivation is relaxing your healthy eating habits on Saturday and Sunday – allow yourself that! You’ll be much more successful if you use your motivators to propel you instead of hinder you.